Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy NewsNews from the Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy websitehttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk
en-gbCopyright: (C) Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy 2019Fri, 22 Feb 2019 14:07:44 GMTNewsletter - February 2019
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<h1 class="HTXT">Newsletter - February 2019</h1>
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Thu, 14 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMTVacancy - Maternity Cover
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<h1 class="HTXT">Vacancy - Maternity Cover</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We require the following staff to cover a maternity leave from March 2019:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Learning Support Practitioner 3<br /></strong>Grade D plus SEN allowance</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This maternity cover post will work 32.5 hours per week, Monday &ndash; Friday, term-time plus 1 week of training days, as part of the SEN/Inclusion Team within our Academy.&nbsp; We welcome applications from dedicated, professional people who meet the person specifications.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The LSP3 will support students in maximising their potential.&nbsp; The successful candidate will have the qualifications and skills to accelerate the learning of students who have been identified as underachieving, as a result of particular barriers to learning.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>Our academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.&nbsp; The appointment will be subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.</em><em> We therefore insist that all applicants complete the section on safeguarding in the application form in order to be considered for interview.&nbsp; <strong><u>No agencies</u>.</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Application information is available to download <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Vacancy_-_Maternity_Cover.zip" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vacancy - Maternity Cover">here.</a>&nbsp; We do not accept cvs.&nbsp; Please return completed application forms before the closing date to</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="mailto:Jayne.Orme@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">Jayne.Orme@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Closing date: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 12pm on Monday 25<sup>th</sup> February 2019&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /></strong><strong>Interviews:</strong>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><strong><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">soon thereafter&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Vacancy-Maternity-Cover
Tue, 12 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMTVacancy - Teacher of Science
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<h1 class="HTXT">Vacancy - Teacher of Science</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We require the following staff from September 2019.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Teacher of Science<br /></strong><strong>MPS</strong><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are seeking to appoint an outstanding teacher of Science&nbsp;(preferably with Physics as their specialism) who is keen to join a&nbsp;dedicated department striving to raise standards through developing outstanding learning and teaching.&nbsp; The Science Department prides itself on teamwork, passion and drive, and applications are welcome from candidates with a similar philosophy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA is a welcoming academy which has benefitted from a major re-build and refurbishment programme. This has created exciting, new and well equipped learning spaces. We are becoming increasingly the academy of choice in our community, and are full and oversubscribed once again.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><u>Are you the inspirational teacher we are looking for?</u></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are seeking an outstanding candidate to join Team OSCA. You will have:</span><br /> </p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A flair for innovation in learning and teaching</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A compelling educational vision and the ability to motivate students</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A commitment to delivering on our motto of &ldquo;<strong>Striving for excellence in an <u>O</u>utstanding, <u>S</u>uccessful, <u>C</u>aring, <u>A</u>chievement driven learning environment</strong>.&rdquo;</span></li>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are in very close proximity to Birmingham city centre with excellent transport links by car, bus and train; and are just a few minutes from Junction 2 of the M5.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>The appointment will be subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check. We therefore insist that all applicants complete the section on safeguarding in the application form in order to be considered for interview.&nbsp; <strong>No agencies.</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Application packs are available to download <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Science_Application_Pack.zip" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Science Application Pack">here</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>We do not accept CVs.&nbsp; </strong>Please email completed application forms to <a href="mailto:jayne.orme@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">jayne.orme@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Closing date:&nbsp;&nbsp; 9.00am on Friday 1<sup>st</sup> March 2019<br /></strong></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Interviews:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; soon thereafter&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Vacancy-Teacher-of-Science-07022019131056
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMTImmunisations
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<h1 class="HTXT">Immunisations</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Dear Parents/Carers</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Your child is due to have two booster vaccinations, commonly known as the school leavers booster vaccinations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">One vaccination protects against diphtheria, tetanus and polio (Revaxis) and is recommended if your child has not received this vaccination in the last 5 years. The other vaccination protects against Meningococcal ACWY, which can cause meningitis, this vaccination is recommended if your child has not received a Meningococcal ACWY vaccination since&nbsp;<span class="text_exposed_show">the age of 10.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">In Birmingham and Sandwell these vaccinations are given to the children in Year 9 by a very experienced immunisation team who work closely with the school nurses.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Two consent cards (one green, one white) will be given out to house groups over the next 4 days during L4S.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&middot; Tuesday - Dahl House</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&middot; Wednesday - Shakespeare House</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&middot; Thursday - Picasso House</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&middot; Friday - Da Vinci House</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">The consent cards need to be completed and returned to OSCA as soon as possible stating if you DO or DO NOT require your child to receive these vaccinations. It is important you complete both consent cards even if your child has already had these vaccinations or you do not require your child to receive these vaccinations &ndash; we can then update your child&rsquo;s school health records.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">For more information about immunisations please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bhamcommunity.nhs.uk%2Fimms%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2XmtCO1-em6f3GYIJTvrfL5R2AAOeONlbmTkHa1Y7mZFvy4CfqpG0Vb_M&amp;h=AT0J_pI0qpbsUFbRpV-Fi6en5g_zAeSFBqfEL9cNKiy6rGomqTNhQqWzPJ81T-4bnDWeo6UsOLF39u0uDdNLC4CRtfMnujMTTO_Xle4JvJBGVA_3r97bfF3P6Q64E7I-kh4h3WFANFP-tvC1zTCH8-YWl2CtK4zrYqmuhow_vB5xGzuHPOTPjryXD_ibGmjHR31jjumwYVs_p-nUfzIbDvlzPiH3VtqS5oldSXOBUJYYxq4_Thcyqq_49VxqgpOLdjTOI7lZ2yKgEjo3yG5WfNA77h0YTRUzj-oTEtNXaILrzeDtG43Gr4-_gLwMnLxVHwiEJXQoSKf18OUcA6WX499xCWARJZL_8VbC8jL3Em4r7vb_gM8mev2qPrVnXgYjcmM81YxfTMa7r0k-BYGPzxse3a-kGpfdGvhEg6i6V7rr8bqcKHMuNbZXlx8D5k8EgF4xl_eLQutnS2ARhNe7QqOoyQGBbByeHujCo0ix54Rz7dhXd1wiPvfQ0Xt0csVIHfcsGU9BrYSwJoySF5RAtq_9OlSZXQ2OrOQ2sBK8riWGOwQs8r2K07VUeiaP9Yt8rVIunB4YoYq78C2Mr-7F08EDDV54CpadjwtMgAAH-fvl--avzxRO6_og__X2_ehOnPNO" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;-U&quot;}" data-lynx-mode="async">www.bhamcommunity.nhs.uk/imms</a>(<a href="http://www.bhamcommunity.nhs.uk/imms?fbclid=IwAR32VpRwEVjxdj5d-Ksrj3cvrltZHFDWA1epi0kYAtGOa9CtkmtBNZRZrOs" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;-U&quot;}" data-lynx-mode="async" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bhamcommunity.nhs.uk%2Fimms%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR32VpRwEVjxdj5d-Ksrj3cvrltZHFDWA1epi0kYAtGOa9CtkmtBNZRZrOs&amp;h=AT00Su5bdZeOL2wTXonaVGiL3ex4U2R30Y0_9pUYGYlAMickS19D3ZtcksqKp03lTpauFT8vOhPOe86FEc8tCJxuyjZkeJk8b2ckqiSmWPuYLAooW_yiJZshKrKSKrE07lh3xqxeMk6IahJVqyRe8qe166R9Ra8bBF_O5aOKmC1wu0WQy0USYySZ6yELaZgb9QZgZvINkbD09DNpform6BjKZ3Lz6Q-pZmQB-4DhM3CC8n_groyXADdAS7Yk97gtJav6Em1Oeu37gSGU5EZI14V3nItNG7jAiC44IEZgHf7olBNsCqYVPIKH5wvq-yL0kuYvYc0K3ibuPqSx4RjawAJTD4J3v8zC848JRWh2Cg6UrQGnQYy-TZoHZIjyaUXzQzaO5doA978NA5tndnsrx4TUN6vfLBkRsd_0OTlin7j_6QuToiTZvIHC18rr170vFesaUqyYpcYshwcA7t2QDtInIZzMSBoZAlUbVVKJWn_mUfuwMr7iX0Zj2eCFvhpEQijIJdDJVFvtgdkSGG45lnwdJ-pRXG2tQHKvEkbyHdwpaOWQSjG2eNNXZSebRwlytdlKK8LvaGj7_tKno3vIkbJihZAvjZAnOOA9JyMFucKwHWq8ACnPp_BhOfZzV46nlWkT">http://www.bhamcommunity.nhs.uk/imms</a>) or call the immunisations team on: 0121 530 8035. You can also contact me at OSCA on: 0121 552 5501.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Your Faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Mr. Christopher King</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">First Aid / Health &amp; Safety Officer</span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Immunisations
Mon, 04 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMTInvestors in People
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<h1 class="HTXT">Investors in People</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy Awarded Investors in People Gold&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Once again, Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy (OSCA), in Oldbury, have struck Gold. OSCA are delighted to have achieved the Gold Investors in People Award, an accolade given to organisations who demonstrate best practice in leadership, empowerment and staff development. Going for, and achieving gold, is about vision, teamwork and drive, - this award demonstrates that &lsquo;Team OSCA&rsquo; has the winning formula.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">The academy, which is sponsored by Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT), achieved the award after an in depth assessment by Investors in People, a community interest organisation who lead the drive for better leadership and workplaces. OSCA received the organisations prestigious &lsquo;advanced&rsquo; level in seven of the assessment&rsquo;s nine categories, in an achievement that is testament to the dedication of all staff at the academy.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">The Gold award places OSCA amongst only 2% of institutions nationally who achieve this level for their belief in realising and recognising the power and potential of their employees.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Investors in People found that colleagues at all levels were actively engaged in capitalising on successes and committed to driving the academy to excellence. As one employee said: &ldquo;We are constantly thinking about how we are progressing and what help we might need to move forward&hellip; it&rsquo;s an ongoing dialogue.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">The assessment also recognised the academy&rsquo;s work to develop and empower strong leaders at every level. One member of staff said: &ldquo;I&rsquo;m pushed to take opportunities within the school&hellip; they enable me to develop and be noticed. The leadership team are all very different, but you can feel their passion for making a difference and it&rsquo;s contagious!&rdquo; Teachers and other staff members were highly complementary about the passion of all leaders within the academy.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">The majority of academy&rsquo;s team members responded positively to the statement: &ldquo;My behaviour reflects the organisation&rsquo;s values.&rdquo; These values were found to directly impact the students at Ormiston Sandwell, with one employee commenting: &ldquo;Everything we do is to encourage the ambition and achievement of the kids,&rdquo; and another saying that the development of staff demonstrates that: &ldquo;The values of having aspirations and taking courage are being enacted every day.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">The report clearly demonstrates the commitment the staff all feel to improving the experiences of outcomes for all students. People described how the values are lived and breathed, with one saying: &ldquo;You can feel it&hellip; I&rsquo;ve never worked in a school quite like it&hellip; everyone is valued and part of team OSCA and we are all striving for excellence.&rdquo; This was also reflected in the wide range of extra-curricular activities for students that staff spoke about during the assessment, from the Brilliant Club, trips to places including Iceland, Peru and the Azores and experiences such as the Duke of Edinburgh award and the annual academy production.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">As well as benefiting students, assessors also found that one of the greatest changes the Ormiston Sandwell team has made is establishing the academy at the heart of the community. Many staff members are from the local area of Oldbury and some described the pride they now feel to say they work there. As one staff member said, Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy are &ldquo;having a far greater impact than simply on our pupils.&rdquo; Staff were proud to work with a wide variety of community organisations in order to make OSCA the thriving hub it is.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Marie McMahon, Executive Principal of Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, said:</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&ldquo;We are thrilled that Ormiston Sandwell has been awarded the Investors in People Gold Standard. We take the direction, support and values of our academy very seriously and we are proud that this has been recognised.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&ldquo;The award is a tribute to the collective effort of all of our staff, as well as the parents and pupils who are so supportive of our vision and ethos.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&ldquo;We now look forward to continuing to drive best practice at the academy and support the development of some of our best people in a way which benefits themselves, our students and the local community.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/IIP-Award-Brand-Mark-Gold-Boxed-Pantone-871-1.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="229" /></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Investors-in-People
Wed, 23 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMTExpress and Star STEM Challenge
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<h1 class="HTXT">Express and Star STEM Challenge</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Click the picture below to view the full supplement.</span></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/d31b660e-168e-44d8-ae64-7b5dadafb0bf.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Express and Star STEM Challenge Supplement"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/d31b660e-168e-44d8-ae64-7b5dadafb0bf-1.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="693" /></a></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Express-and-Star-STEM-Challenge
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMTOrmiston Sandwell Enter STEM Challenge
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<h1 class="HTXT">Ormiston Sandwell Enter STEM Challenge</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ormiston Sandwell Enter STEM Challenge</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, in Oldbury, are taking part in the STEM Challenge 2019, a project in conjunction with Dudley College and the Express &amp; Star.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Gifted and talented boys from Year 8 from the academy will be entering the challenge, which teams up a local business with each school. Local manufacturing company Schmolz and Bickenbach International have been chosen as Ormiston Sandwell&rsquo;s business partner.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The boys&rsquo; challenge is to design a product, using the elements of science, technology, engineering or maths, that has a positive benefit to an individual/group and/or the environment.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Their brief is to produce a product/prototype based on the following themes:</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Innovation: The judges will need to be impressed by the design, actual product or thinking behind the design or solution &ndash; will it make them say &lsquo;WOW?&rsquo;</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Application: Judges will be looking for all elements of STEM to be applied to the design and/or manufacture of the chosen product or prototype.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Impact: Students must think outside the box to ensure the product has a perceived positive benefit to whom or what is aimed at, in an ideally measurable way.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Rigorous selection criteria have led to a dream team of six pupils from Ormiston Sandwell, aptly named the &lsquo;Steelix Apprentices.&rsquo;</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There are five prizes to be won, including Best Work Plan, Best Team Work, Best Operating Model and Best Presentation. There will also be one overall winner. For most categories, teams will be required to give a five-minute presentation or demonstration, followed by five minutes of Q&amp;A.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy&rsquo;s boys are looking forward to the chance to develop their confidence, resilience, entrepreneurship and STEM skills.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Sch_Bicken_Advert_Proof__1_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="717" /></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Ormiston-Sandwell-Enter-STEM-Challenge
Wed, 16 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMTPolice and Schools Panel Knife Letter
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<h1 class="HTXT">Police and Schools Panel Knife Letter</h1>
<p><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px;" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Police.jpg" alt="" width="69" height="86" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;<img style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px;" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Sandwell.png" alt="" width="164" height="82" />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
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<p style="text-align: right;">&nbsp; &nbsp;<br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Sandwell Police</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">West Bromwich Police Station</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">New Street</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">West Bromwich</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">B70 0HN</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Date: 11<sup>th</sup> January 2019</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">Sandwell police is working with all secondary schools across the borough to help reduce the vulnerability of young people to knife crime.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">We are working jointly with Sandwell council, school councils and head teachers to understand the reasons behind a small number of our youth carrying weapons.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">Every Sandwell secondary school will be taking part in a number of activities in coming months, which are designed to challenge young people&rsquo;s thinking and to raise awareness on the consequences of carrying a knife.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">We want to educate school children and ultimately prevent them from becoming a victim or an offender in the future.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">One of the key elements of this programme is the use of a walk-through metal detection arch in all secondary schools. The purpose of this knife arch is to detect anyone carrying a weapon and to deter them from doing so.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">The checks will be conducted sporadically across all schools and we believe this to be an open and transparent way in which to protect schools pupils and members of our community.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">Each school will ensure that the metal detection activity is carried out in a friendly, positive and educational way; with an opportunity for debate and discussion to be opened up.<br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt; color: #0000ff;">We are committed to creating a safe environment for everyone in Sandwell and look forward to working with you.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/sign.png" alt="" width="321" height="119" /><img style="float: right; margin: 0px 10px;" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/orm.jpg" alt="" width="151" height="68" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Download letter PDF <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Police_and_Schools_Panel_Knife_Letter_OSCA.pdf">here</a></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Police-and-Schools-Panel-Knife-Letter
Fri, 11 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Christmas 2018
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<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Christmas 2018</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">December 2018</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, here we are again&hellip; the end of another year approaches&hellip;2019 is just around the corner&hellip;where do the years go?! &nbsp;As we approach the end of another extremely busy and highly successful term, I just wanted to keep you up to date on recent events, and to confirm arrangements for the end of term and the start of the New Year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Clearly, maximising achievements in exams remains our number 1 priority.&nbsp; Year 11 had a busy few weeks of mock exams earlier this half term, helping them to prepare for 'the real thing', and we have been delighted with their maturity and motivation to do well.&nbsp; As you may know, OSCA is predicting its best GCSE results ever in the summer, and we have raised the bar even higher for 2019 in line with national changes to the qualifications landscape, so the pressure is on!&nbsp; Many students celebrated some well-deserved, excellent mock results, whilst others realised there is still much to do! &nbsp;We will continue to pull out all the stops to maximise achievement for all in the New Year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside our work on preparing students to get the best possible exam results,&nbsp;you know that I am equally passionate that learning should also be fun.&nbsp; We certainly have had some fantastic enrichment activities over the last half term to complement all the work we are doing improving teaching and learning and raising standards.&nbsp; Full details of these are available on the website, and in particular in our end of term <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/December_2018_newsletter.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christmas '18 Newsletter">newsletter</a>. This also includes key dates for your diary.&nbsp; The academy re-opens for students at <strong>8.30am on Tuesday 8<sup>th</sup> January</strong>, for the spring term 2019.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>As you know, we are constantly looking for innovative ways to continue to raise standards at OSCA, and to strengthen our partnership with you as an essential part of this process. &nbsp;Just before October half term, OSCA launched the new Parent App.&nbsp; The App is a new convenient new way to share information with you about your child's school life.&nbsp; You can access the system from a smartphone, tablet or PC anytime, anywhere.</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>What will you find in the SIMS Parent App:</em></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>Important information such as attendance, behaviour, achievement and homework</em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>School term, inset dates and contact details available at the click of a button</em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>Access your child's school report</em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>Receive notifications to remind you about important information such as key dates for your diary&nbsp;</em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>Access to update your contact details, so we always have the most up-to-date information in case of emergency&nbsp;</em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>If you have more than one child at OSCA, you will have access to information for all your children, from the same app</em></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>The information that you receive through the app will help you to stay up-to-date with your child's school life as well as support your child's development and progress. &nbsp;If you need any more information or help with the Parent App please contact our IT Support Helpdesk at </em><a href="mailto:it.support@ormistonsandwell.org.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>it.support@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</em></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">One planned heightened focus for us next term is improving students&rsquo; equipment and preparedness for lessons. &nbsp;We have found that a small but significant minority are not bringing the minimum expected everyday of a bag, a pencil case, and enough basic equipment to enable the lesson to go smoothly. &nbsp;To minimise all disruption to learning, we are launching a &lsquo;zero tolerance&rsquo; on this from January. &nbsp;Please do check you have received our letter about this, it has all the information needed, and is on our website too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please can I also check that you have seen my letter last week concerning some changes for the new term? We will implement a change of procedure to improve health and safety at the very busy dismissal period. Starting in January, and in line with many schools, the gates will be locked to all vehicles between the following periods:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Monday:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3.40pm until 4.00pm<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.50pm until 3.10pm<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Friday:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1.10pm until 1.30pm</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please plan ahead, as there will be no facility to enter or exit at these times. &nbsp;We apologise in advance for any inconvenience, but must prioritise the health and safety of our students, as I am sure you will understand.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This term, we have continued to receive yet more awards and accolades for more areas of outstanding practice! &nbsp;These have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OAT Gold award for outstanding attendance once again - highest across the whole OAT network nationally for the fourth consecutive year, the whole borough, and one of the highest across all schools nationally (always such an accolade of course given the proven link between outstanding attendance and outstanding achievement);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our re-assessment for the Investors In People Award. The feedback from this was outstanding. &nbsp;We await the outcome with excitement, and will let you know as soon as we do!</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you know, we are now a National Support School, and we have continued to share some of our excellent practice in many areas.&nbsp; We have delivered training and support for colleagues across the OAT network nationally, and Sandwell Local Authority this term. &nbsp;Well done to all colleagues involved.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please note that lessons will continue as normal this week, so it is really important all students have 100% attendance even in the run up to Christmas, so they do not miss out on any learning. &nbsp;Please note that attendance on Friday too is compulsory for all year groups, and essential if students in years 7-10 wish to be eligible for next term's reward trip.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It is really encouraging that all of our improvements continue to&nbsp;have an extremely positive impact on OSCA's reputation and popularity.&nbsp; As you may know, we are now full and over-subscribed in every year group, with our catchment area shrinking every year. &nbsp;Indeed, we already had almost 350 applications for the 210 places available, so competition for places is likely to be fierce once again in 2019!&nbsp; A great accolade for all the fantastic work we are doing here in our determination to make OSCA a beacon of excellence in our immediate community, across Sandwell and beyond.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, thank you once again for your support and partnership this term.&nbsp; Watch this space for further developments and innovations in the new year- no resting on our laurels at OSCA!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am so proud of everything staff and students have achieved this year, and of how they have responded to a continual raising of the bar as we move towards outstanding.&nbsp; Of course, none of this could happen without your support as parents and guardians, and I look forward to sharing even more successes with you in the New Year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">With best wishes for a peaceful and enjoyable holiday, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Executive Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Principal-s-Letter-to-Parents-Christmas-2018
Wed, 19 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - Christmas 2018
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<h1 class="HTXT">Newsletter - Christmas 2018</h1>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/December_2018_newsletter.pdf
Wed, 19 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMTEarly Closure
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<h1 class="HTXT">Early Closure</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">OSCA will close for Christmas on Friday 21st December at 12:00pm.&nbsp;<br /></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Have a Happy Christmas&nbsp;<span class="_47e3 _5mfr"><img class="img" src="https://www.facebook.com/images/emoji.php/v9/t4c/1/16/1f642.png" alt="" width="16" height="16" /><span class="_7oe">:-)</span></span>&nbsp;<span class="_5mfr"><span class="_6qdm">&#127876;</span></span></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Early-Closure
Tue, 18 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMTGate Closure Letter
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<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Christmas '18</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">December 2018</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A couple of important updates for you, in preparation for the new term, and starting in January.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><u>Equipment for learning</u></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Firstly, we have become aware this term of a small&nbsp;but significant minority of students who do not have the basic equipment for learning we expect.&nbsp; This, unfortunately, can cause low-level disruption to the smooth learning of themselves and others. &nbsp;We have therefore decided to clarify for everyone our expectations on this small but critical element of preparedness of learning. &nbsp;We would ask for your support in ensuring that <strong>everyone, every day, has the following</strong>:&nbsp;</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;A school bag</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;A pencil case</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">2 black or blue pens as a minimum</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1 red pen</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1 pencil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1 ruler</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1 rubber</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ideally, it would also be beneficial if they could bring:&nbsp;</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A protractor</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A calculator</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A highlighter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A glue stick</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">However, these are not compulsory, especially if finance is an issue.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To support the students in keeping up to standard, we will be opening a school shop. &nbsp;This will operate every break and lunch, for students to purchase any equipment they are missing. &nbsp;We will of course, keep the prices as low as possible.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In order to enforce these very basic expectations, we will also be including lack of equipment now in our sanctions, if required. &nbsp;This will be linked to our existing sanction structure. Specifically:&nbsp;</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Anyone who does not have their pencil case period 1 will receive a 20 minute detention during that day&rsquo;s lunch time (as happens, for instance, with lates), so the consequence is immediate</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If the student still does not have their pencil case and equipment the next day, they will be given an hour&rsquo;s detention for the following day, with the appropriate notice of course</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In the very unlikely case that this continues for a third day, students will be allocated to the next 2 hour detention, with the appropriate notice of course</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I repeat that the overwhelming majority of students do comply with this already, and thank you again for your support as parents and guardians in getting them equipped. &nbsp;However, as we continue on our journey to outstanding, we need to tighten up on this, and launch a zero tolerance approach, so no lesson is disrupted for avoidable reasons. &nbsp;Hence this clarification, and asking for your continued support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All of the essential items above can be bought at low cost on the high street (or from our shop), but if any parent is going to struggle financially to supply the basics, do let your child&rsquo;s Assistant Head of House know, and we will support you where we can.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you have any queries or comments on this, please email Mr Ahmed on <a href="mailto:kabir.ahmed@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">kabir.ahmed@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a> .</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><u><strong><br />Health and Safety at the end of the school day </strong></u></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you have ever visited the academy at dismissal time, you will have noticed how busy and congested the front gate and exit can get. &nbsp;It has become increasingly busy over the last few years, as we have grown in popularity and pupil numbers. &nbsp;We have now reached a point where the current system of cars and students exiting at the same time, in such a confined space, is no longer tenable, and potentially dangerous.&nbsp; Therefore, starting in January, and in line with many schools, the gates will be locked to all vehicles between the following periods:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Monday:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3.40pm until 4.00pm<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.50pm until 3.10pm<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Friday:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1.10pm until 1.30pm</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you currently hold a pass to enter the car park to collect your child, you should already have heard from us directly.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please plan ahead, as there will be no facility to enter or exit at these times. &nbsp;We apologise in advance for any inconvenience, but must prioritise the health and safety of our students, as I am sure you will understand.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We will be informing students too in the next week or so. &nbsp;Please do take this opportunity to reiterate with them the importance of taking care as they exit from both gates, as traffic is always very busy (and focussing on safety is not always uppermost in many teenagers&rsquo; minds!).</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thank you in advance for your support in keeping our students safe.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you have any queries or comments on this, please email Mr Morgan on <a href="mailto:andrew.morgan1@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">andrew.morgan1@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a> .</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please do look out for our end of term newsletter, which will be published next week, with lots of other academy news from this half term.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Executive Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Principal-s-Letter-to-Parents-Christmas-18
Fri, 14 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMTGuess The Mystery Teacher
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<h1 class="HTXT">Guess The Mystery Teacher</h1>
<p>This page is awaiting content</p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Videos/
Tue, 11 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMTSTEM Launch - Express and Star
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<h1 class="HTXT">STEM Launch - Express and Star</h1>
<p><a href="https://www.expressandstar.com/news/education/2018/12/04/skills-put-to-the-test-as-express-star-stem-challenge-launched/?fbclid=IwAR0zLD94ToWJEv_RsjWwseDEIYrHiS5IrTVnYQBwA94jNU6rIklGdmXKQT0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/STEMLaunch.jpg" width="600" height="500" /></a></p>
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<h1 style="text-align: left;">Skills put to the test as Express &amp; Star STEM Challenge launched</h1>
<p class="block-meta"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.expressandstar.com/news/authors/dayna-farrington/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dayna Farrington</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.expressandstar.com/news/education/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Education</a>&nbsp;| Published:&nbsp;<time datetime="2018-12-04T06:01:00.055Z">Dec 4, 2018</time></span></p>
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<div class=" full pb-feature pb-layout-item pb-f-single-subheadline" id="f0AavjvHK94gMq">
<p class="hero"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Young engineers of the future can put their classroom lessons to the test in a new challenge launched for schools across the Black Country and Staffordshire. Follow the link for the <a href="https://www.expressandstar.com/news/education/2018/12/04/skills-put-to-the-test-as-express-star-stem-challenge-launched/?fbclid=IwAR0zLD94ToWJEv_RsjWwseDEIYrHiS5IrTVnYQBwA94jNU6rIklGdmXKQT0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Full Article">full article</a>.</span></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/STEM-Launch-Express-and-Star
Wed, 05 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMTChristmas Mystery Teacher
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<h1 class="HTXT">Christmas Mystery Teacher</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Can you guess the Christmas Mystery Teacher?&nbsp;<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Click on the picture below to watch the videos&nbsp;</span><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/XmasEmojis.jpg" alt="" width="66" height="23" /></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jqufi8v-pM8&amp;list=PLazpcaQyw4YN_ReoFMGKfD-p8eeab5A6J" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christmas Mystery Teacher Playlist"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Mystery_Teacher.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="317" /></a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Christmas-Mystery-Teacher
Tue, 04 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMTLockdown Letter
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Lockdown Letter</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">As you know we take health and safety very seriously at our academy. We live in complex times, and need to be prepared for all eventualities. One new policy we have had to develop, in light of national and international events, is a lockdown policy. Essentially, this is to cover highly unlikely, but of course not impossible events, to be sure we are ready to react if required.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">These events might include:&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">A reported incident or civil disturbance in the&nbsp;<span class="text_exposed_show">local area which potentially poses a risk to the academy community;&nbsp;<br />a dangerous individual in the locality;&nbsp;<br />an intruder on the academy site with the potential to pose a risk to students, staff and visitors;&nbsp;<br />or a warning being received regarding a local risk of air pollution (e.g. smoke plume, gas cloud) etc.</span></span></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">To that end, we are planning this afternoon a practice drill with staff and students. I stress this will be a practice, and we have no safety concerns at all.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">We will explain to the students in advance today why we are doing this, so they do not become alarmed. We will evaluate how it goes, and do an annual practice to ensure everything runs smoothly going forward. Please do contact your child&rsquo;s house team if you wish to clarify anything.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Best wishes,</span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Marie Mcmahon</span></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Lockdown
Fri, 16 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newsletter October 2018/docs/Newsletters/October_2018_newsletter.pdf
Fri, 26 Oct 2018 09:00:00 GMTSports clubs @ OSCA
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<h1 class="HTXT">Sports clubs @ OSCA</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Below are list of Sports clubs that will be running after half term here at OSCA. Please see Miss Blakey if you are interested.</span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Capture_2.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="324" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sports-clubs-OSCA
Tue, 23 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMTSims Parent App Launch
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<h1 class="HTXT">Sims Parent App Launch</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Over the next few days we OSCA will be launching the new Parent App.&nbsp; This is a new&nbsp;convenient new way to share information with you about your child's school life. From October 2018 , you'll be able to access our new parent app and website. You can access the system from a smartphone, tablet or PC&nbsp; anytime, anywhere.</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>What will you find in the SIMS Parent app:</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Important information such as attendance, behaviour, achievement and homework</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">School term, inset dates and contact details available at the click of a button</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Access your child's school report</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Receive notifications to remind you about important information such as key dates for your diary&nbsp; </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Access to update your contact details, so we always have the most up-to-date information in case of emergency </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you have more than one child at school, you'll have access to information for all your children, from the same app.</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The information that you receive through the app will help you to stay up-to-date with your child's school life as well as support your child's development and progress.&nbsp;</span><br /><br /></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Getting started with the SIMS Parent app</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1.We will&nbsp; shortly send you an activation email, simply click on the link from your tablet, PC or smartphone to activate your account. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">2.You can then login using your normal Facebook, Twitter, Google or Microsoft username and password. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">3.From your smartphone or tablet, download the app from the Google Play or Apple App store - search for SIMS Parent. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">4.From a PC or Windows phone, login online at <a href="http://www.sims-parent.co.uk">www.sims-parent.co.uk </a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please note that your activation email is unique to you and should not be used by anyone else. If you require an additional login then please contact your school. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Your activation email will expire after 14 days if it is not used, please contact your school if you require a replacement after this date.</span><br /><br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/parentapp.jpg" alt="" width="578" height="352" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sims-Parent-App-Launch
Wed, 17 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMTOAT Christmas Card Competition
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OAT Christmas Card Competition</h1>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Christmas_card_comp_poster_2018_26_10_18.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christmas Card Competition"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Christmas_card_comp_poster_2018_26_10.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="849" /></a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OAT-Christmas-Card-Competition
Tue, 09 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMTPaediatric &amp; Adult First Aid
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Paediatric &amp; Adult First Aid</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Are you interested in 'Paediatric &amp; Adult First Aid' course? Sandwell Adult Family Learning (SAFL) will be running the course in November at OSCA. Please come and enrol on Tuesday 23rd October at OSCA from 9.30am - 11am.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/PAFA_Ormiston.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="PAFA Ormiston"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/PAFA_Ormiston.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="773" /></span></a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Paediatric-Adult-First-Aid
Mon, 08 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMTHPV Letter
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">HPV Letter</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Carer,</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please note, your daughter is due to have her second <strong>Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)</strong> vaccination on Monday 17<sup>th</sup> September 2018. Sandwell immunisation team are coming in to deliver this. For any further information about this vaccine and self-care afterwards, please refer to the patient information leaflet your daughter will be provided with on the day.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The immunisations team can be contacted on: <strong>0121 530 8035</strong>.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy expects all students to attend the academy the following day.&nbsp; This is a very common vaccine, and there should be little to no after effects, so all students must attend academy the next day. &nbsp;&nbsp;Any minor reactions can be looked at by me as First Aid Officer here in academy.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you require any further information, please feel free to contact me on: <strong>0121 552 5501</strong> to discuss this further.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully,</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mr. Christopher King<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">First Aid Officer</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/HPV-Letter
Fri, 14 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMTSports Clubs at OSCAhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/OSCA-Sports-Clubs-13092018091613/
Thu, 13 Sep 2018 09:17:00 GMTUnacceptable Footwear
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Unacceptable Footwear</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Nike Air Force 1 trainers will NOT be acceptable academy footwear in September even without the silver tag. Footwear on the attached pictures will NOT be accepted as appropriate uniform. Please click onto the link for more information:&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"><a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/School-Uniform/">http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/School-Uniform/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image003.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image0011.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="600" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Unacceptable-Footwear
Fri, 20 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newsletter - July 2018/July_2018_newsletter.pdf
Wed, 18 Jul 2018 13:03:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Summer 2018
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Summer 2018</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we approach the end of another busy term, I just wanted to give you a few updates, and confirm the end of term arrangements.&nbsp; And, once again, what a term it has been! &nbsp;Some highlights for me have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">First and foremost, the fantastic news that our academy has once again been rated &lsquo;Good&rsquo; by Ofsted. I am delighted that Ofsted has recognised all the excellent work going on here at OSCA, and was especially proud that they actually recognised what a &lsquo;special place&rsquo; the academy truly is. I can ask for no higher a validation than the quote of one student, who told the inspectors, we are truly &ldquo;one big family&rdquo;;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our outstanding work as a National Support School has continued to grow. This means so much as it is effectively the Department for Education&rsquo;s stamp of approval for our excellent practice here. As well as my role as a National Leader for Education, we now have designated 10 Specialist Leaders of Education across the academy- a fantastic accolade for the multi-talented Team OSCA!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are the top performing school in the whole borough again this year for attendance, for the 5th consecutive year, and one of THE top performing nationally. This matters so much given the proven link between high attendance and high achievement in exams. Indeed, we have also had an impact in improvements borough wide and OAT wide this year, through training local schools in best practice, again as part of our National Support School work;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our popularity continues to grow dramatically, and we are full and oversubscribed for the 5<sup>th</sup> consecutive year, with a long&nbsp;waiting list, and a huge number of appeals. We are delighted to be so successful now, but will ensure we keep to our &lsquo;medium is marvellous&rsquo; mantra, and maintain the family feel so prevalent at our academy;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our OSCA Awards Ceremony last week, attended by approximately 400 guests, including some very proud parents and guardians. We gave out 150 awards, all for outstanding effort and achievement.&nbsp; It was particularly impressive to see our &lsquo;Brilliant Club&rsquo; Graduates in full university gowns and mortar boards, already producing university level assignments, and with a record number of First Class Degrees;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The deal that we have secured for families to help you find affordable family holidays. Clearly, you will already have received our letter about this, but just a reminder of the exclusive savings on offer to our families at Thomas Cook Oldbury:</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">From <strong>now until 31 August 2018</strong>, you will be offered:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">5% off the overall cost of any Thomas Cook, Airtours, Manos or Club 18-30 package holidays. This can be applied to holidays booked by 31 August 2018, for travel within school holidays, until 31 October 2019. There is no minimum spend required.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Preferential exchange rates on all currency</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A &pound;15 gift voucher for <a href="http://www.feelunique.com">www.feelunique.com</a> when you spend over &pound;350 in store</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To benefit from these fantastic discounts, you will simply need a letter from the academy (from <a href="mailto:Kabir.ahmed@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">Kabir.ahmed@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a>) confirming that your child attends OSCA and that you are therefore eligible for the offers. This will then need to be taken into the branch when booking a holiday or exchanging currency. Bon voyage!</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside all of our hard work, we have managed to have a lot of fun too! Students have benefitted once again from a myriad of enrichment opportunities. Please do click on the link to check out our latest <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/July_2018_newsletter.pdf" title="OSCA Newsletter - July 2018">newsletter</a>, for a flavour of some of these.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I know we are all looking forward to a much-earned rest in the coming weeks. However, I know many of you may also worry that the 6 weeks holiday for students might lead to some potential dips in progress, especially for older students coping with preparedness for examinations. Did you know many subjects set summer projects for students to help keep their brains engaged?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This is especially the case for year ten, but also for other year groups. It includes a 6 week maths revision package, a science summer challenge, a Python coding package in computer science, a summer grammar booklet in French, and an English work pack, to name but a few. All of the work is available on the student R drive, and they have all the relevant login information already. So, no need to get bored on those (inevitable!) rainy days.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please do encourage your child, especially if they are going into year 11, to complete as much as they can, in between some rest and relaxation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As many parents and guardians will be buying new uniform in preparation for September just a reminder that the uniform list is on the website on the parents' page. &nbsp;We have had excellent support from the overwhelming majority of parents in meeting the enforcement of uniform and ethos rules this year. &nbsp;One thorny issue in this can be the definition of formal shoes. &nbsp;We have therefore on the uniform page of the website&nbsp;provided examples of what the Academy means by these, and to help parents avoid spending money on shoes which are not suitable. Many sports shops are branding items as shoes that aren&rsquo;t actually shoes (and charging huge amounts in the process!), so please do check on the website.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We really do not want to start the new term on a negative note about inappropriate uniform, and I know how expensive items can be. Please can I also reiterate that trousers must be formal too, no leggings/jeggings/very tight styles either please. As I always say, uniform is the physical manifestation of a student's attitude to school, so thank you in advance for working with us to ensure they get it right. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I understand that the summer holidays is a time to relax and perhaps for parents to allow our young people to have a bit more freedom as teenagers. Please can I ask however that any summer piercings/extreme hair colourings are removed by the start of term in September. &nbsp;Again, please&nbsp;visit our website if you have any queries about expectations, or contact your child's Head of House.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The website also has all the information you need about our <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/School-Uniform/" title="Uniform Supplier">uniform supplier</a>, as well as a link to the finance department if you have any queries. The remaining selling dates at OSCA for your convenience are:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Thursday 2nd August - 2pm to 7pm</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In terms of practical arrangements, the academy will finish for students at:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>12:00pm on Friday 21<sup>st</sup> July</strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>OSCA re-opens for years 7 and 11 on Wednesday 5<sup>th</sup> September at 8.35am</strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>OSCA re-opens for all other year groups on Thursday 6<sup>th</sup> September at 8.35am </strong></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For all other key dates next term, please see the newsletter and the draft calendar on the website.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As a reward for students for such a successful term, and our excellent Ofsted report, Friday 13<sup>th</sup> July was a non-uniform day for students. We raised over &pound;700 for Great Ormond Street Hospital. And the free ice lollies for all went down a treat too!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em><u>Campaign to make Lower City Road safer</u></em>: One of our local residents, and former parents, has begun a campaign to lobby the local council and MP to consider ways of making our main street safer. OSCA school council will be actively lobbying on our behalf too. Please see the attached leaflet, which gives information about the campaign. Clearly, the more people who lobby the authorities, the more likely they are to take notice. Please do add your voice to the campaign if you feel able to. The contact details we have are from the office of Adrian Bailey MP:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="mailto:cromptonm@parliament.uk">cromptonm@parliament.uk</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On the subject of safety, please can I remind parents that we are sadly unable to accommodate parents dropping off or collecting students on our car park at the start and end of the day. Space is just too limited. An exception to this will, of course, be made in the case of registered disability. Please do talk to reception if this applies to you and a pass may be issued.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, thank you once again for all of your support this academic year.&nbsp; Our thoughts now lie with years 11 and 13, and we are hoping and praying that this summer will top last year&rsquo;s fantastic results, and bring our best ever set of exam results, so watch this space! &nbsp;I am so proud and pleased of everything we have achieved together this year, and look forward to celebrating even greater successes in the new academic year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes for a happy (and sunny!) summer holiday,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Principal-s-Letter-to-Parents-Summer-2018
Wed, 18 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMTOpen Water Swimming - Safety Advice for Parents/Open_Water_Swimming.pdf
Tue, 17 Jul 2018 09:32:00 GMTProm 2018 Photos
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Prom 2018 Photos</h1>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Prom-2018-Photos
Tue, 17 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMTLeadership Award
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Leadership Award</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 8 students have been celebrating after over 100 of them successfully completed a leadership award that has been delivered at the academy during PE lessons. They were chosen to be part of a pilot project to complete their YSA 'GO' award, organised by the PE dept in collaboration with the Youth Sport Trust where they had to complete at least a week of physical activity, 10 hours of sports leadership and developed understanding of how physical activity and healthy choices are a beneficial way of promoting and maintaining Healthy lifestyles. Year 8 fully embraced the project with the successful students achieving their award and receiving certificates in recognition of their superb efforts.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Well done to all students who took part in this award.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Students_celebrate.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="338" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Leadership-Award
Wed, 04 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMTMessage to Parents
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Message to Parents</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It has been brought to our attention that there are temporary traffic lights outside the academy entrance due to road works. At this stage we do not know how long they will be there for.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In the best interests of the safety of our students can we respectfully request that parents do not park near to the academy entrance and wherever possible, avoid using Lower City Road around 3pm whilst the works are in progress.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Many thanks for your cooperation in this matter.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Message-to-Parents
Tue, 26 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTSports Day 2018
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Sports Day 2018</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">OSCA celebrated is annual Sports Fest on Friday 22nd June at Tipton Sports Academy.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"> The day kicked off OSCAs celebration of National school sports week which is an annual celebration of PE and Sport in education which is running from 25th June to 29th June where activities are being offered to students and staff throughout the week.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"> 300 Students from years 7 to 10 attended the day and participated in a traditional sports day which was in the format of a house competition and a range of sports activities that were offered to encourage and promote physical activity as an enjoyable way of developing important life skills like resilience, integrity, communication, collaboration that have been studied through the PE curriculum during lesson time. Students were also shown the importance of mental well-being through the use of physical activity and were offered both recreational and competitive elements for the day.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"> The weather was very much on our side and all events throughout the day went seamlessly with the day, regarded as the biggest yet, being deemed a huge success by all involved. A particular mention has to go to the students who were complimented on their exemplary behaviour in all areas of the leisure centre and to all of the staff who supported both at trackside and in the sports areas with students throughout the day... we look forward to sports fest 2019.</span><br /> </p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
<p><video width="600" height="300" controls="controls">
<source src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Videos/Sports_DAY_2018_1.mp4" type="video/mp4" />
</video></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;<video width="600" height="300" controls="controls">
<source src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Videos/Sports_Day_2018_2.mp4" type="video/mp4" />
</video></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sports-Day-2018
Mon, 25 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 Assembly
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 11 Assembly</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">An invite only assembly has been arranged for Year 11. Please reply to your personal invitation via email or reply slip by Friday 29th June.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-11-Assembly
Fri, 22 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTLetter from PC Treasure
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter from PC Treasure</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Working in partnership with West Midlands Police, Sandwell Secondary Schools will be circulating this letter which gives important safety advice.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Read it, share it and help keep young people safe this Summer</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Letters/Letter_from_PC_Treasure_5.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Letter from PC Treasure"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Letter_from_PC_Treasure.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="852" /></span></a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-from-PC-Treasure
Wed, 20 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTJune Leavers Letter
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">June Leavers Letter</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Year 11,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><u>Re: Please Return Your Revision Guides and Specifications on Friday!</u></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The science examinations have almost finished!&nbsp; Thank you to all of you who have tried your very best.&nbsp; I have been delighted with the effort that you have made in revising for your examinations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tomorrow (Thursday), we will be offering our final revision sessions during periods 1, 2, 3, and 5 in preparation for your final Physics Paper.&nbsp; You are welcome to attend all sessions if necessary!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><em>I would be grateful if you could please remember to return your revision guides on Friday.&nbsp; There will be a box placed at reception in order for you to do this. I should like to remind you that the cost of replacing each revision guide is &pound;10.00. The books and specifications are needed for our new cohort of students. This will enable students to have the same level of resource support as you.</em></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The science department would like thank you for your hard work leading up to the exams and wish you all the very best, both for any future examinations and with life beyond OSCA!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>With the very best of wishes</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Julie Anderson</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><em>Senior Leader: Science</em></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/June-Leavers-Letter
Thu, 14 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTOfsted - Report/Ormiston_Sandwell_Community_Academy_10043048_final_pdf.pdf
Wed, 13 Jun 2018 08:29:00 GMTOfsted - Press Release
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Ofsted - Press Release</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ofsted confirms Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy&rsquo;s Continued Success</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students and staff at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy (OSCA) in Tividale are celebrating today after Ofsted has once again rated the academy &ldquo;Good&rdquo;, recognising its continued success.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The inspectors described how the academy&rsquo;s leadership team has &ldquo;maintained the good quality education in the academy since the last inspection&rdquo;. They also praised Executive Principal, Marie McMahon for leading the academy &ldquo;well&rdquo;, supported &ldquo;effectively by other senior and middle leaders&rdquo;.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The glowing report, which followed a one-day inspection carried out in May, noted that the strong leadership team has &ldquo;created an inclusive and purposeful environment&rdquo; at the academy, describing OSCA as &ldquo;a welcoming school&rdquo;.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Inspectors also highlighted the academy&rsquo;s positive culture that &ldquo;encourages calm and orderly conduct and is aspirational&rdquo; for all students. They noted that as a result, students &ldquo;enjoy their education&rdquo; and staff &ldquo;are proud&rdquo; of the academy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ofsted also noted that students spoke positively about the &ldquo;strong sense of community&rdquo; at the academy and &ldquo;the support they receive from teachers&rdquo;, with a Year 8 student describing life at OSCA as being part of &ldquo;one big family.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The letter also stated that teaching and learning continues to improve at the academy with &ldquo;high expectations, impressive teacher knowledge and effective questioning&rdquo; used to challenge students. Inspectors described teaching as &ldquo;strong&rdquo; in most subjects, with the great majority of students now &ldquo;making effective progress&rdquo; as a result.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy, which is sponsored by Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT) was previously rated &lsquo;Good&rsquo; by Ofsted in April 2015. The latest inspection one again confirms the success of the academy, which continues to be on a strong upward trajectory.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This excellent report follows the academy&rsquo;s great success in last year&rsquo;s GCSE results with students achieving the best results in the academy&rsquo;s history. 57% of OSCA students achieved a Grade 4 or above in both English and Maths, despite it being the first year of the new, tougher exams.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The report highlights a number of other key areas:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; The Principal is committed to raising standards by &ldquo;securing high-quality teaching and learning&rdquo;.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; The academy has a strong culture of safeguarding with &ldquo;leaders and staff ensuring students&rsquo; safety and welfare&rdquo; and the curriculum includes &ldquo;regular teaching on how to stay safe, including from potential dangers that can arise when using the internet and social-media platforms&rdquo;.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Progress board members and governors are &ldquo;committed to the school&rdquo; and &ldquo;have a sound understanding of issues and concerns, and challenge and support leaders effectively&rdquo;.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Strategies for raising achievement for girls have been incorporated into the science curriculum and &ldquo;girls&rsquo; science clubs are proving popular&rdquo; with students.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon, Principal of Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, said:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&ldquo;I am delighted that Ofsted have recognised all the excellent work going on here at OSCA, and that this &lsquo;health check&rsquo; has confirmed that we are well on our way to &ldquo;Outstanding&rdquo;. There are many comments I am delighted with, but to hear an Ofsted inspector say that OSCA is &lsquo;a special place&rsquo; was quite simply one of the proudest moments of my career.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Nick Hudson, Chief Executive Officer of Ormiston Academies Trust, said:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&ldquo;We are so pleased that the continued excellence and high quality of education at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy has been confirmed by Ofsted. We look forward to continuing to support the academy as it pushes to achieve even greater heights.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/00062.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="399" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/00028.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="399" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Ofsted-Press-Release
Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTOfsted - Letter to Parents
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Ofsted - Letter to Parents</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">June 2018</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parents / Carers</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It is with enormous pleasure that I write to share the fantastic news that our academy has once again been rated &lsquo;Good&rsquo; by Ofsted.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This fantastic news follows a one-day Ofsted inspection, which as you know took place in mid-May.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am delighted that Ofsted has recognised all the excellent work going on here at OSCA and what a &lsquo;special place&rsquo; the academy truly is (yes, they actually used that phrase!).</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The inspectors noted how we have maintained &ldquo;the good quality education&rdquo; and continued to drive improvement across the academy, since our last inspection in April 2015.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The report also recognised the academy&rsquo;s strong roots in community and how we work hard to make students and the wider community feel part of everything we do &ndash; as one student described it to the inspectors, we are truly &ldquo;one big family&rdquo;.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We could not have achieved this without your support and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you, your fantastic children and our dedicated staff for their hard work and commitment, which has helped to make OSCA such an amazing place to learn, work and succeed.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The report highlights many key strengths of our academy. Some areas that make us very proud include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The inspectors were impressed with the &ldquo;inclusive and purposeful environment&rdquo; at the academy and described OSCA as &ldquo;a welcoming school&rdquo;.&nbsp;</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The positive culture that &ldquo;encourages calm and orderly conduct and is aspirational&rdquo; for all students.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students &ldquo;enjoy their education&rdquo; and &ldquo;staff are proud&rdquo; of the academy.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students speak positively about the &ldquo;strong sense of community&rdquo; at the academy and &ldquo;the support they receive from teachers&rdquo;, with a Year 8 student describing life at OSCA as being part of &ldquo;one big family.&rdquo;</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy&rsquo;s leaders are committed to raising standards by &ldquo;securing high-quality teaching and learning&rdquo;.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy has a strong culture of safeguarding with &ldquo;leaders and staff ensuring students&rsquo; safety and welfare&rdquo; and the curriculum includes &ldquo;regular teaching on how to stay safe, including from potential dangers that can arise when using the internet and social-media platforms&rdquo;.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Progress board members and governors are &ldquo;committed to the school&rdquo; and &ldquo;have a sound understanding of issues and concerns, and challenge and support leaders effectively&rdquo;.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A full copy of the letter from Ofsted will be made available through the academy website <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Ormiston_Sandwell_Community_Academy_10043048_final_pdf.pdf">here</a>.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am extremely proud of everything that we have been able to achieve here at OSCA and, with your help, as always. I look forward to the academy continuing on its strong upward trajectory, as we work towards becoming an &ldquo;Outstanding&rdquo; academy. We pledge to continue to help all our students fulfil their potential and to inspire the wider community.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As always, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">With very best wishes</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Ofsted-Letter-to-Parents
Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTFrench Trip - Brittany May 2018
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<h1 class="HTXT">French Trip - Brittany May 2018</h1>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/French-Trip-Brittany-May-2018
Mon, 04 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Sports Fest
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Sports Fest</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA Sports Fest:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Remember! Get your consent forms back to you head of house by no later than Friday 8th June.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The race has started&nbsp;<span class="_5mfr _47e3"><img class="img" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/f94/1/16/1f947.png" alt="" width="16" height="16" /></span><span class="_5mfr _47e3"><img class="img" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/f15/1/16/1f948.png" alt="" width="16" height="16" /></span><span class="_5mfr _47e3"><img class="img" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/f96/1/16/1f949.png" alt="" width="16" height="16" /></span>................ The house with the most consent forms collected by the deadline wins bonus OSCARS!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="OSCA Sports Fest" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Sports_Day-Recovered.jpg" alt="OSCA Sports Fest" width="600" height="386" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Sports-Fest-04062018121311
Mon, 04 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - May 2018/May_2018_newsletter__1_.pdf
Wed, 23 May 2018 10:19:00 GMTYear 11 Sports Science Winners
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 11 Sports Science Winners</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 11 Sports Science Prize Draw Winners!</span></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year11SportsScience.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="338" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-11-Sports-Science-Winners
Tue, 22 May 2018 00:00:00 GMTOfsted Information
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Ofsted Information</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">You will be aware we had an Ofsted inspection on Tuesday. This was our 3 year &lsquo;check up&rsquo; inspection to check if the academy is still good. You may also be aware that I am unable to share the findings of the inspection until I receive the official report, which generally takes several weeks. However, I wanted to let you know that I was pleased with how the inspection went, and to confirm that I will, of course, publish the official report as soon as I receive it. Thank you as always for your ongoing support. Best wishes,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">M McMahon</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Ofsted-logo.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="512" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Ofsted-Information
Thu, 17 May 2018 00:00:00 GMTSchool Inspection - Letter To Parents
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">School Inspection - Letter To Parents</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">14 May 2018</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear parent or carer</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Inspection of Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy by Ofsted</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have just told your child's school that we will inspect it on 15 May 2018. The lead inspector will be David Buckle. We are writing to you because we would like to know what you think about the school. Please take a few minutes to read the leaflet which came with this letter. It explains why we inspect schools, and what happens during an inspection.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Your views about the school are important to us</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you are a registered parent or carer of a pupil at the school (including pupils on sick leave or who are temporarily excluded), you can tell us your views about the school by completing Ofsted's online survey, Parent View, at: <a href="http://www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/">www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Parent View asks for your opinion on 12 aspects of your child's school, including the progress made by your child, the quality of teaching, how the school deals with bullying and poor behaviour. It also provides a free-text box for you to make additional comments, if you wish. The inspectors will use the online survey responses when inspecting your child's school. Written comments can also be sent to the school in a sealed envelope, marked confidential and addressed to the inspection team.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To register your views, you will need to provide your email address, which will be held securely. It will not be used for any purpose other than providing access to the online survey. Neither schools nor Ofsted will have access to any email addresses.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please complete the online survey by <strong>noon</strong> on 15 May 2018 as this will give the inspection team more time to consider your views. However, we will consider all online responses that are completed during the inspection, although the free-text box facility will not be available after noon on 15 May 2018.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Speaking to an inspector</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you are unable to complete the online survey, it may be possible to speak to an inspector during the inspection, for instance at the start of the school day, or to pass on messages to the inspectors if you are unable to speak to them in person. Inspection administrators will be happy to make the necessary arrangements. If concerns are raised about child protection, we may have to pass the information we receive to social services or the police. You can contact the administrators on 03000130631. Inspectors will be pleased to receive your comments, but cannot deal with complaints about individual pupils or settle disputes between you and the school.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete the online survey.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Deirdre Smedley</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<table>
<tbody>
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<td style="padding: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<td style="padding: 0cm 0cm 0cm 0cm;">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As well as completing the survey, you can use Ofsted's online survey, Parent View, at any time during the school year to give Ofsted your opinion of your child's school. You can also use Parent View to see survey results for schools across England. Visit <a href="http://www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/">www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk</a> or look for the link on the main Ofsted website: <a href="http://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted">www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted</a></span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/School-Inspection-Letter-To-Parents
Mon, 14 May 2018 00:00:00 GMTSchool Inspection - Information
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">School Inspection - Information</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/School_inspections_-_a_guide_for_parents.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="School Inspections - A guide to parents">School Inspections - A guide to parents</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Inspections_of_maintained_schools_and_academies_including_short_inspecti___.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inspections of maintained schools and academies">Inspections of maintained schools and academies</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/School-Inspection-Information
Mon, 14 May 2018 00:00:00 GMTSports Science Trip
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Sports Science Trip</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our year 10 sport science students went on a trip to Loughborough university yesterday to see what the day in a life of a sport science student at university would be like.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The students had a great time and their behaviour was impeccable.</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sports-Science-Trip
Fri, 11 May 2018 00:00:00 GMTUniform Selling Dateshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Uniform-Selling-Dates-at-OSCA/
Wed, 02 May 2018 10:54:00 GMTOSCA Sports Fest
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Sports Fest</h1>
<p><img title="Sports Fest" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Sports_Fest.jpg" alt="Sports Fest" width="600" height="338" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Sports-Fest
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMTAzores Trip 2018http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=20125
Tue, 17 Apr 2018 11:16:00 GMTP.E Visit
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">P.E Visit</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Tuesday 27th March OSCA students were treated to a very special visit from Renske Stoltz, a South African international Netball player who currently plays for Wasps Super league Netball team who are reigning Super league champions.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">30 Year 8 students braved the weather to have a 1 hour coaching session delivered by Renske from basic skills to technical plays and game situations. Students thoroughly enjoyed the session and were fantastic at all times.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thanks to Renske for visiting the academy and good luck for the rest of the season.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSC_2859.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="338" /><br /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/P-E-Visit
Tue, 17 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 Easter Letter
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 11 Easter Letter</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parents/Guardians,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As the Easter holiday approaches, so do the formal summer examinations. We understand that students will need to take a break and re charge during Easter, but that they will also be completing revision and preparation for assessments and exams which begin in only a few weeks&rsquo; time.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Revision of key topic areas or skills is vital at this time to ensure your child achieves the best outcomes. A small effort each day can lead to big gains over a period of time, so it&rsquo;s never too late to begin learning those key facts and quotes, or developing key exam techniques.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Staff at OSCA have provided a range of resources and revision materials to help students with their independent learning.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The first point of call will be a student&rsquo;s academy email address, where staff may have emailed individual assignments to students. Academy email accounts can be accessed <a href="https://mail.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/owa/auth/logon.aspx?replaceCurrent=1&amp;url=https%3a%2f%2fmail.ormistonsandwell.org.uk%2fowa%2f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Email Account">here</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All students have also been emailed a help sheet on how to remotely access our student drive. (Which can also be accessed <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Accessing_your_School_Work_from_Home.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Remote Access">here</a>.) This drive will hold all of a student&rsquo;s work, and also a range of bespoke revision materials and resources created by our staff.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We also provide access to a range of online revision tools such as GCSEPod, which covers a wide variety of subjects, and Mathswatch.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Most students will also have access to revision guides purchased or provided by the academy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The best revision and preparation is bespoke to your child&rsquo;s needs. No student should try to revise &lsquo;everything&rsquo;. A focus on the key topics or style of question they find most difficult will be most effective. Revising for short bursts of 30-45 minutes, with a short break, then another short burst, is also very effective.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have already done a huge amount of work with the students since the start of year 11 on how best to revise. However, just as a reminder, the least impactful style of revision is reading notes. This is a passive activity and has been shown to be ineffective. Making charts, tables, and colourful posters is a much more active method of revision. Using video and song to trigger memory, or taking quizzes and &lsquo;teaching&rsquo; someone else are much more likely to help those facts and figures stick.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We hope that you have found this brief update useful in supporting your child in these last few vital weeks of revision and preparation. Many thanks in advance for your support during this time, as always.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours Faithfully,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Miss F Cutler &ndash; Associate Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-11-Easter-Letter
Wed, 28 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newsletter - March 2018http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Newsletters/March_2018_newsletter.pdf
Tue, 27 Mar 2018 15:39:00 GMTDouble Award Win For OSCA
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Double Award Win For OSCA</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, part of Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT), is celebrating following the success of Year 11 student Michelle and Attendance &amp; Logistics Manager, Jayne Cooper, at this year&rsquo;s OAT Annual Awards.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Michelle won the &lsquo;Sporting Champion&rsquo;, sponsored by Zurich Municipal, and Jayne was crowned winner of the &lsquo;Securing Futures&rsquo; Award, sponsored by School Broadband, after hundreds of nominations were submitted by OAT&rsquo;s 36 academies across the country.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The Awards, now in their fourth year, recognise and celebrate the achievements of exceptional students and teachers from across the OAT network of academies, at an award ceremony in London.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Michelle is a true sportswoman and has learnt and developed varying skills and techniques throughout a range of sporting activities, to constantly better her performance. She has represented the academy at various high-level competitions, and is seen as a role model and inspiration for younger students, encouraging them to participate and aim higher, as House Captain. Michelle also extends her dedication to sport in her studies, and the quality of her work is outstanding.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Jayne, winner of the Securing Futures award, is an exceptional member of staff who has made an outstanding effort in addressing and raising student awareness about the importance of attendance. She has worked tirelessly at the academy to ensure that students understand the link between attendance, achievement, ambition and future aspiration.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Jayne is a real trailblazer and is highly regarded across the OAT network for her commitment. She has been able to share this best practice to develop a policy for OAT academies, creating and running training packages across the OAT network and other schools, to improve attendance in schools.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OAT Awards were hosted by BBC TV presenter, Michelle Ackerley, and the evening would not have been possible without the support of the award partners, who included Net Zero Buildings, Zurich Municipal, Onecom, Schools Broadband, Capita, TES, PLMR and Ginger Energy, Barker Associates, Eco Consulting, and OAT&rsquo;s founding body, Ormiston Trust.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Principal at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, Marie McMahon, said: </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>&ldquo;Michelle and Jayne are outstanding individuals who will no doubt go on to enjoy many more successes. They are a real credit to Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy and OAT, and we are delighted that their achievements have been recognised with these awards &ndash; congratulations both.&rdquo;</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Bob Yorke, Director, Schools Broadband said:</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>&ldquo;Schools Broadband is delighted to be a part of the OAT Annual Awards. As a supplier we have been extremely impressed with both OAT as an organisation and also the level of ability, talent and endeavour shown by all the pupils across the Ormiston Academies Trust family. Huge congratulations to Jayne for this award and we wish her the very best of luck in the future.&rdquo;</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Zurich Municipal said:</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>"We&rsquo;re proud to support the OAT Awards again this year and to sponsor the Sporting Champion award. We&rsquo;re delighted to see both academy teachers and students recognised for their achievements and contributions this year. Huge congratulations to Michelle on her success, and good luck for the future."</em></span></p>
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<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Double-Award-Win-For-OSCA
Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTSpeak Out!
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<h1 class="HTXT">Speak Out!</h1>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="euv2d-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Monday 26th March 2018, OSCA's Year 10 students took part in The Speakers Trust "SpeakOut" Challenge.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Speakers Trust is the UK&rsquo;s leading public speaking and communication skills training charity, with the vision of enabling every young person to speak confidently and be heard. Year 10 took part in a day of workshops that aimed to enhance their speaking and communication skills by giving them the confidence to transform their thoughts into speech. Across the course of the day students developed the skills to structure and deliver a 2 minute speech on a topic of their choice - students spoke about a vast array of topics including feminism, the importance of video games, family, and 'a perfect society'. The day culminated in each student delivering their speech to their group, which took a great deal of bravery and courage. The winners from each group were: Lucy, Aimee, Chloe, Joshua, Georgina, Benjamin, and Selinda. Our finalists will go on to deliver their speech in an Assembly Final after Easter, with the winner entering the Regional Final - to be held at a local university this summer. This was an invaluable experience for our students, who developed a real confidence, and reaped the rewards of challenging themselves to do something a little bit scary! Well done all!</span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1rgl1-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="1rgl1-0-0">A few of our favourite student comments: </span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="fjhjj-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="fjhjj-0-0">''Absolutely fabulous! I was sceptical at the start, but as the day continued, I enjoyed it so much, and it improved my confidence immensely!" </span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6u1kl-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="6u1kl-0-0">"I would totally recommend this experience as I've learnt a lot about myself and gained confidence" </span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="41pgf-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="41pgf-0-0">"The SpeakOut Challenge has helped me have the confidence to speak in front of a crowd of people even if I am petrified to do so!" </span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="a8e1d-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="a8e1d-0-0">"The trainer was extremely helpful and kind; she gave us confidence without forcing us into speaking. She gave us an easy to understand structure for making speeches and I will definitely use it later in life"</span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="a8e1d-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="a8e1d-0-0"><img title="Speak Out!" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Speak_Out.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="800" /></span></div>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Speak-Out
Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Easter 2018
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<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Easter 2018</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we approach the end of another highly successful term here at OSCA, I am writing to share a few of the highlights of the term with you, and to confirm end of term arrangements.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Firstly, our work as a National Support School has gone from strength to strength, with a myriad of best practice events led by our teams. I am so proud that the standard of education we now offer at OSCA is so good, that the Department for Education want us to share this excellent practice to support other schools.&nbsp; In addition to my work as a National Leader for Education, we now have <u>ELEVEN</u> Specialist Leaders of Education (SLEs), working across the borough and nationally at OAT academies, sharing our best practice with them. What an accolade for Team OSCA, our students and our community! &nbsp;I know we will learn lots from the support work we do, and bring the best of what we see back to further strengthen practice at OSCA too, as we march on on our journey to outstanding.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Secondly,&nbsp;the OSCA show was once again a total triumph this year. The students, led by Team PAPA, captivated audiences with their Beauty and the Beast production, taking us on a journey of talking teacups, teapots and magical objects. It is so impressive to think that the whole production was student run, including backstage, lighting, and sound, as well as the magical performances. It really was our brightest, biggest, best, and most professional production yet. I felt like I had spent the night at an actual West End Theatre show. Simply stunning!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am delighted to once again share with you the fantastic news that we are full and over subscribed for the fifth consecutive year, and now in every single year group!&nbsp; Don't forget, four years ago only 140 pupils wanted to come to OSCA, this year, over 350 applied, and we will have 210, all of them first choices! &nbsp;We also have a long waiting list of students who were not able to secure a place.&nbsp; This is a reflection, of course, of all the superb work we have been doing on raising standards here over the past five years.&nbsp; It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students - all with your superb support, of course.&nbsp; As standards have risen, so too our reputation has justly improved, and our aspirations continue to rise too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Another highlight for me was the academy once again winning two awards at the prestigious Annual OAT Awards Ceremony.&nbsp; Yet another fantastic accolade for the team.&nbsp; Only eight awards are given out in total nationally, with staff and students from over thirty academies eligible, and team OSCA won two! &nbsp;Miss Cooper won the National Securing Futures award for her and Team Pastoral&rsquo;s work on improving attendance within OSCA, and at many other schools locally and nationally as part of her SLE work. That night was another where I was bursting with pride of course, as one of our year 11 students, Michelle Owusu, won the National Sporting Champion Award too!&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For more information on these, and many other highlights, do keep a regular check on our website, Facebook page, Twitter feed etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we continue to march on, on our journey to becoming outstanding, we are keeping our eye on the day job too, and never forget the basics.&nbsp; Standards continue to rise this year in every area of academy life - teaching and learning, behaviour and safety, and progress and achievement in particular. &nbsp;We continue to be the highest performing school in the whole borough for attendance, and indeed one of the highest in the whole of the country!&nbsp; This matters so much of course, given the proven link between high attendance and high achievement and progress.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside all our hard work, we&rsquo;ve managed to have some fun too of course! &nbsp;I really can't thank staff enough for some of the incredible opportunities on offer to our students, and for the time and energy they devote to this, above and beyond the day job.&nbsp; Please see the link newsletter <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Newsletters/March_2018_newsletter.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="March Newsletter">here</a>, which highlights just a few of the many enrichment activities students have taken part in. Again, do check out our website for lots more information and photos of events we have participated in.&nbsp; Take a moment if you can to catch up with our weekly Newscast too, where students film and produce their own weekly report on academy events - it's always very informative.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy will close for students at 12pm on Thursday 29<sup>th</sup> March for the Easter break.&nbsp; The new term will start again for students on <strong>Tuesday 17<sup>th</sup> April, 8.30am sharp!</strong>&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, thank you once again for the excellent support you provide us as parents and guardians, I know you know how important that partnership is for success.&nbsp; I hope you all have a great Easter, and a happy and relaxing few weeks.&nbsp; I look forward to welcoming all the students back at the in April, refreshed and ready for the rigours of next term!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Executive Principal</span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Principal-s-Letter-to-Parents-Easter-2018
Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTPolice Informed
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<h1 class="HTXT">Police Informed</h1>
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<p>During the school day on Thursday 22nd March 2018, a white male wearing black rimmed glasses, a red top, a red cap and blue jeans was lurking in the bushes near the perimeter of OSCA?s site. He called after a group of year 7 girls who were orienteering on site, and startled them. The students behaved very responsibly, alerted staff, and all moved away from the area. All parents were contacted.</p>
<p>The police have been informed. We would like to thank our staff and students for responding so sensibly and professionally.</p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Police-Informed
Thu, 22 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTAdditional Science Support
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<h1 class="HTXT">Additional Science Support</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parents</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><u>Re: Science Additional Science Support and Formal Assessments<br /><br /></u></strong>Your child&rsquo;s GCSE science examinations will begin soon. I am writing to let you know about important dates relating to science study support and formal assessments that will be offered to your child, in preparation for this.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Key Formal Assessment Dates:<br /></strong>Thursday 22<sup>nd</sup> March: Biology A /Chemistry A/ Physics A</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thursday 19<sup>th</sup> April:&nbsp;&nbsp; Biology B/ Chemistry/ Physics B</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thursday 3<sup>rd</sup> May:&nbsp;&nbsp; Biology C/ Chemistry C/ Physics C &ndash; Final Assessment Dates</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Your child has already been given information explaining how the above relates to the different sections of the specification.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In addition to the internal formal assessment dates shown above, your child will also be given the opportunity to attend additional study sessions to help improve their study skills and also to aid their understanding of key topics. Your child&rsquo;s GCSE science examinations will formally begin on 15<sup>th</sup> May.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>The dates of the additional study sessions being offered by the science team are shown below:</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Saturday 7<sup>th</sup> April 9- 12 noon</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Wednesday 11<sup>th</sup> April 9-12.30</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thursday 12<sup>th</sup> April 9- 12.30</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We will send you future details relating to the specific groups that we are targeting by text message.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We hope that your child is using their time wisely in the final weeks prior to their examinations and hope that they are using their revision guides/specifications/notes/online support and flash cards to help them in their studies.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Teachers are also emailing students with links to examination practice questions (and answers).&nbsp; Please ensure that your child is engaging with this as this is a valuable way that children can learn important techniques and become more familiar with the language of examinations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thank you in anticipation of your support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours sincerely</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Julie Anderson</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><em>Senior Leader: Science</em></strong></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Additional-Science-Support
Wed, 21 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTWASPS Netball Trip
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<h1 class="HTXT">WASPS Netball Trip</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Last night (12th March '18) OSCA Year 7 and 8 students went to watch a vitality super league netball fixture between current UK champions Wasps and their local rivals Severn Stars.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The students were impeccably behaved throughout and were extremely excited at the experience provided where they got to spectate a sport taught on the curriculum at its best level, played by semi professional female role models and some international Netball players. Students embraced all activities of the evening and saw WASPS win their seventh game in a row. A fantastic evening had by all.</span></p>
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<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/WASPS-Netball-Trip
Tue, 13 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTYear 8 PCE and Pathways Eveninghttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Diary/Year-8-PCE-and-Pathways-Evening-2018-03-07/
Wed, 07 Mar 2018 14:27:00 GMTOAT/YST PE Conference
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<h1 class="HTXT">OAT/YST PE Conference</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On 6th March OSCA P.E students attended the OAT/ YST P.E conference at university of Birmingham. The focus of the day was the use of ICT and Social media with subjects and how we could develop this to make it the norm.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students worked with peers from five other OAT schools to look at different apps and how they can be used in P.E. Students were fantastic ambassadors for the school and staff complimented them on the input of ideas from the discussions they had with the group&nbsp;<span class="text_exposed_show">and how they conducted themselves throughout the day.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">James</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Lauren</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alyssa&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Luke&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Jacob</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/1.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="338" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/2.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="338" /><br /></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OAT-YST-PE-Conference
Wed, 07 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 Sports Science Competition Time!
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<h1 class="HTXT">Year 11 Sports Science Competition Time!</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/Year11_Sports_Science_Students.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="334" /></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-11-Sports-Science-Competition-Time
Mon, 05 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTTonight's Beauty & the Beast Show - CANCELLED
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<h1 class="HTXT">Tonight's Beauty &amp; the Beast&nbsp;Production - CANCELLED</h1>
<p>It is with deep regret we have had to take the decision to postpone tonight&rsquo;s performance of Beauty and the Beast. We have been monitoring the weather forecast all day, and, of course, it is still unpredictable locally. However, it looks more likely than not at the moment that potentially heavy snow will start falling around 4pm. We have therefore concluded that we cannot guarantee the safe journey home after the performance of all students, staff and audience members. I am sure you will have seen some of the horror stories nationally of people stranded overnight in cars, and we simply cannot take that risk.<br />I know how disappointing this will be (especially after 2 such astounding performances the last few nights!), but I trust you will understand I must put health and safety concerns first.<br />We will seek to reschedule the performance as soon as logistically possible. Anyone who has bought a ticket for tonight&rsquo;s performance will, of course, be entitled to a full refund, or a replacement ticket for the postponed date.</p>
<p>Furthermore, in light of the forecast having moved forward to 4pm now, we feel it best to cancel any after school activities to allow students and staff to try to get home safely sooner rather than later. If this causes you an issue, please advise your child to report to the main foyer area at the end of school, where we will ensure they are supervised by senior staff until the normal departure time for their activity.</p>
<p>In terms of tomorrow, our default position is to try to open of course, but we can only at this stage monitor the forecast overnight. We will confirm via all the usual platforms once a decision has been made. I know the sooner we make a decision the better for your contingency plans, and will aim to do so as soon as conditions become clear.</p>
<p>Many thanks in advance for your support in these extreme conditions.</p>
<p>Best wishes,</p>
<p>M McMahon</p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Tonight-s-Beauty-the-Beast-Show-CANCELLED
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMTBeauty and the Beast First Performance
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<h1 class="HTXT">Beauty and the Beast First Performance</h1>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Beauty-and-the-Beast-First-Performance
Wed, 28 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newsletter - Feb 2018/docs/Newsletters/February_2018_newsletter.pdf
Fri, 16 Feb 2018 08:04:00 GMTAdvertising Club
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<h1 class="HTXT">Advertising Club</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Slide1.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="338" /></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Advertising-Media-Club
Tue, 06 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMTAimhigher Trip to Aston Hall
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<h1 class="HTXT">Aimhigher Trip to Aston Hall</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">On Wednesday 31st January&nbsp;9 Year 9 Students embarked on an Aimhigher Trip to Aston Hall. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">The 9 students have recently completed an 8 week Aimhigher Coaching Programme, taught by a student from Birmingham City University. The project aimed to develop their independent living skills, and yesterdays trip was the culmination to celebrate all their hard work. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">Across the course of the project, the students got to plan their day - deciding where they would go, how they would get there, and ultimately, how they would spend their budget. The students settled on Aston Hall, planned a public transport route from OSCA to to the venue (on foot, buses and trains), and then decided on a &pound;5 lunch budget to spend at Tesco's after our tour.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">Students enjoyed catching public transport (one hadn't been on a train since they were 6), taking ownership of their day, engaging with the Aston Hall Tour, but most importantly, choosing their lunch. Notably - Tinotenda, who managed to spend exactly &pound;5.00 on an absolute stash of food!!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">All in all we had a great day, and I think it was a really valuable opportunity for these students to practice some of the skills they've been focusing on during the project. Students behaviour was impeccable throughout, a real credit to the school. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">Thank you Mandy for stepping in to support the trip, and OSCA, for allowing us the opportunity to do it!</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Aimhigher-Trip-to-Aston-Hall
Thu, 01 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMTAimhigher Design and Engineering Trip Success
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<h1 class="HTXT">Aimhigher Design and Engineering Trip Success</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Once again OSCA students have done a great job at representing the academy, this time by engaging in an interactive day surrounding pathways into design and engineering.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students from Y8-Y11 visited WSP today, one of Europe&rsquo;s largest design and engineering firms. Here they took part in practical sessions in which they planned and &lsquo;built&rsquo; their own school. First students had to decide on the location, taking into account geographical factors and plotting the catchment areas of other schools. They then got to experiment by budgeting for and building their own drainage system with straws and connectors (many a leak seen).</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Students built their structures by purchasing supplies (straws and Sellotape) to see who could build the most stable structure to hold the most weight. &nbsp;The winning team (Cordelia Collins, Jessica Brueton, Amit Singh, David Lengert, and Thomas Bennett) built a TWO story structure that could hold six Twixes (more impressive than it sounds) - see picture.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The students behaviour and engagement in the sessions was impeccable, and all seemed to really enjoy it. We&rsquo;ve left with a better understanding of the different stages involved in town planning and careers in&nbsp;architectural engineering!</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Aimhigher-Design-and-Engineering-Trip-Success
Fri, 26 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMTTutor Online
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<h1 class="HTXT">Tutor Online</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Today / On Wednesday 24th January ten Year 11 students started their My Tutor online programme, a fantastic opportunity fully funded through our partnership Aim Higher and our NCOP Programme. MyTutor has matched our students with high-performing online tutors to reinforce classwork in a specific subject. Each session is a face-to-face video chat with their tutor. The lessons are live so they can go at their own pace and ask questions, a great thing too is that the sessions are recorded and students can playback the sessions whenever they wish to consolidate learning.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Each week the students will have a one hour session in S16 with their online tutor where they can have the opportunity to:</span></p>
<ul>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Explore their subject in greater detail;</span></li>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Go over topics they might not have fully understood in class;</span></li>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Learn from current university students</span></li>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Revisit topics they have found tricky to help them to build confidence in the particular subject they are studying- this week included Surds and simultaneous equations in maths! Big bang theory, bonding, hydrocarbons and thermal decomposition in Science. Alongside how erosion shapes our coastline and how rivers are affected by a range of processes.</span></li>
</ul>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">First session nerves were overcome and everyone agreed that actually talking to an undergraduate helped them to further understand the subjects and make progress!</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Tutor-Online
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMTBrilliant Club Launch Trip - Oxford
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<h1 class="HTXT">Brilliant Club Launch Trip - Oxford</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Thursday 18th Jan, 24 of our fantastic Year 9 students attended the Brilliant Club Launch Trip to New College - Oxford University, to start their Scholars Programme. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Throughout the day they attend both an IAG and study skills session before engaging in their very first tutorial based upon two supra curricula; "Pain, neuroscience and a good excuse to electrocute people" and "The Renaissance and its legacy: beauty, genius and revolution". The students additionally received a tour and was utterly inspired by the university, the undergraduate students and the overwhelming beautiful environment. It was an absolute pleasure to finally hear our students say "Yes, I am going for Oxford!!" with complete self-belief and confidence! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The students were a credit to the Academy, not only from their impeccable behaviour but also from their participation. They had a brilliant time broadening their horizons, whilst also taking lots of pictures in the Harry Potter hot spots!</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Brilliant-Club-Launch-Trip-Oxford
Fri, 19 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMTSeptember 2018 - Start Dateshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Term-Dates/
Wed, 17 Jan 2018 11:03:00 GMT500 Words - 2018
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<h1 class="HTXT">500 Words - 2018</h1>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Do you love writing?<br /></strong><strong>Are you aged between 10 and 13 on the 8<sup>th</sup> of June 2018?</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If yes, you can enter this year&rsquo;s BBC Radio 2 <strong>500 Words</strong> short story competition!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To enter, write an original fictional story on any subject or theme in 500 words or fewer. Your story will be judged on its originality, plot, characterisation, use of language and enjoyment.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The top fifty shortlisted entrants will receive a pair of tickets to the final, which this year is to be held at Hampton Court Palace.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Six finalists will have their short story read live on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2 by well-known celebrities. They will also be treated to a short ride in the car Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and will have breakfast canap&eacute;s on board Her Majesty The Queen&rsquo;s rowbarge, Gloriana.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The gold prize winner will receive Chris Evans&rsquo; height in books and 500 books for their school, so pick up your pens and start writing!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please see Mrs Rixson in the LRC for help in submitting your entries, which must be done by 7.00 pm on Thursday 22<sup>nd</sup> February.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/radio2/500words/poster-entrants-a3-2018.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">POSTER DOWNLOAD (PDF)</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/50pnqLfDywb9CFxjNvth5l0/about-500-words" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&nbsp;500 Words 2018 WEB PAGE WITH LAUNCH VIDEO</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/radio2/500words/poster-entrants-a3-2018.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="POSTER PDF"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/poster-entrants-a3-2018.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="844" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/500-Words-2018
Tue, 16 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMTBe Clickwise - Online Safety
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<h1 class="HTXT">Be Clickwise - Online Safety</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Clickwise_Campaign_Flyer-1.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="851" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Clickwise_Campaign_Flyer-2.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="851" /></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Clickwise_Campaign_Flyer.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Clickwise Campaign PDF">Clickwise Campaign PDF</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Be-Clickwise-Online-Safety
Mon, 15 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMTBoys Street Dance Workshop
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<h1 class="HTXT">Boys Street Dance Workshop</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">On Thursday 21st December, 20 boys from years 7-10 took part in a street dance workshop to develop their knowledge of the dance style and improve some dance skills. The afternoon was extremely successful with all the boys enjoying themselves and developing an understanding of street dance's importance within the performing arts sector. They were a credit to the academy and all performed fantastically.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Boys-Street-Dance-Workshop
Thu, 11 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMTDecember 2017 - Newsletter/December_2017_newsletter.pdf
Wed, 20 Dec 2017 15:30:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Christmas 2017
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<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Christmas 2017</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, here we are again&hellip; the end of another year approaches&hellip;2018 is just around the corner&hellip;and all remains well here at OSCA- notwithstanding the vagaries of the British weather of course! As we approach the end of another extremely busy and highly successful term, I just wanted to keep you up to date on recent events, and to confirm arrangements for the end of term and the start of the New Year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Clearly, maximising achievements in exams remains our number 1 priority.&nbsp; Year 11 had a busy few weeks of mock exams earlier this half term, helping them to prepare for 'the real thing', and we have been delighted with their maturity and motivation to do well. &nbsp;As you know, OSCA achieved its best GCSE results ever in the summer, and we have raised the bar even higher for 2018 in line with national changes to the qualifications landscape, so the pressure is on! &nbsp;Many students celebrated some well-deserved, excellent mock results, whilst others realised there is still much to do! We will continue to pull out all the steps to maximise achievement for all in the new year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside our work on preparing students to get the best possible exam results,&nbsp;you know that I am equally passionate that learning should also be fun.&nbsp; We certainly have had some fantastic enrichment activities over the last half term to complement all the work we are doing improving teaching and learning and raising standards.&nbsp; Full details of these are available on the website, and in particular in our end of term <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/December_2017_newsletter.pdf" title="Newsletter">newsletter</a>. This also includes key dates for your diary. The academy re-opens for students at <strong>8.30 am on Monday 8<sup>th</sup> January</strong>, for the spring term 2018.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please can I also ask you ensure your child uses our pre pay systems effectively from January. We have had an increasing amount of students trying to pay at the till, and this is seriously slowing down what is already a very busy service. No money at all will be accepted at the tills in January, so please encourage your children to be organised. The finance office can always help if there are any issues with this.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This term, we have continued to receive yet more awards for more areas of outstanding practice! These have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OAT Gold award for outstanding Careers Education (and the only school in Sandwell to have 100% of students in Education, Employment or Training for the 2<sup>nd</sup> consecutive year);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OAT Gold award for outstanding attendance once again- highest across the whole OAT network nationally, the whole borough, and one of the highest across all schools nationally (always such an accolade of course given the proven link between outstanding attendance and outstanding achievement);</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OAT Gold award for our outstanding Duke of Edinburgh Programme;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OAT Gold award for the most improved History outcomes across the whole academy chain</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you know, we are now a National Support School, and we have continued to share some of our excellent practice in many areas. We have delivered training and support for colleagues across the OAT network nationally, and Sandwell Local Authority this term. Well done to all colleagues involved.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As a reward for the further&nbsp;improved standards of uniform, behaviour and attendance across the Academy this term, on Friday 22<sup>nd</sup> December we will be taking part in our second &lsquo;Wear a Christmas Jumper Day&rsquo;. This is optional and open to all staff and students at a charge of &pound;1. This is for a great cause where money raised goes to Save The Children. The academy will finish on <strong><u>Friday 22<sup>nd</sup> December at 12pm</u></strong> for all students.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please note that lessons will continue as normal this week, so it is really important all students have 100% attendance even in the run up to Christmas, so they do not miss out on any learning. Please note that attendance on Friday too is compulsory for all year groups, and essential if students in years 7-10 wish to be eligible for next term's reward trip.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, thank you once again for your support and partnership this term.&nbsp; Attendance remains at a record high, behaviour referrals are down again, ethos and the standard of uniform are excellent, and the quality of teaching and learning is rising all the time.&nbsp; Watch this space for further developments and innovations in the new year- no resting on our laurels at OSCA!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It is really encouraging that all of these improvements continue to&nbsp;have an extremely positive impact on OSCA's reputation and popularity.&nbsp;As you know, we are already full and over-subscribed with a waiting list in years 7, 8, 9 and 10.&nbsp; We&nbsp;now know from the local authority that we are likely to find this replicated for the new year 7 in 2018. Indeed, we already have almost 350 applications for the 180 places available, so competition for places is likely to be fierce once again!&nbsp; A great accolade for all the fantastic work we are doing here in our determination to make OSCA a beacon of excellence in Sandwell and beyond.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am so proud of everything staff and students have achieved this year, and of how they have responded to a continual raising of the bar as we move towards outstanding. Of course, none of this could happen without your support as parents and guardians, and I look forward to sharing even more successes with you in the new year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">With best wishes for a peaceful and enjoyable holiday, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Principal-s-Letter-to-Parents-Christmas-2017
Wed, 20 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMTMessage from the Principal
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Message from the Principal</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Well, that was the week that was! Thank you for your support this week in ensuring the overwhelming majority of students attended the last 3 days in spite of very difficult travel and weather conditions. It certainly hasn&rsquo;t been easy, but I have so proud of the how hard the whole school community has tried to get back to &lsquo;business as usual&rsquo;.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I have reminded all staff that lessons next week need to keep up the pace, in order to try to catch up on any learning missed. Please remember we are open until 12pm on &nbsp;<strong><u>Friday 22<sup>nd</sup> December</u></strong>, and all students are expected to attend every day to make up curriculum time.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Many thanks in advance for your anticipated support. Best wishes,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Message-from-the-Principal
Fri, 15 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Student Council
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Student Council</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The newly appointed House Council members met with the Principal Ms McMahon to discuss a range of issues. They are now busy working through their action plan to deliver some of the promises they made to get elected.</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Student-Council
Mon, 27 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMTYouth Support Award
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Youth Support Award</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA has been asked to be a pilot school for a new award being offered by the Youth Sports Trust. The Youth Support Award (YSA) is an award that promotes the importance of being physically active and how it is beneficial to physical and mental well-being. It also provides students with the opportunities to develop personal skills through voluntary leadership opportunities.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A selection of year 8 students have spent a morning working with former Olympian and World champion Dan<span class="text_exposed_show">iel Caines as part of this award. Students have been developing skills and participating in a range of practical workshops to promote valuable life skills and learning the importance of the role of students within the Youth Sport Trust schemes being offered to academies around the country. </span></span></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are privileged to have the opportunity to work with Daniel again who visited us last year as part of the Sky sports Living For Sport scheme.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Youth-Support-Award
Thu, 23 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMTOAT Christmas Card Winners
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OAT Christmas Card Winners</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/OSCACardWinner.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="373" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/2017OATxmas_card_announcement_Final.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="315" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OAT-Christmas-Card-Winners
Thu, 23 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMTStaying safe online sessions for parents and children
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Staying safe online sessions for parents and children</h1>
<a href="http://www.sandwell.gov.uk/news/article/4560/staying_safe_online_sessions_for_parents_and_children" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="STAYING SAFE ONLINE SESSIONS FOR PARENTS AND PUPILS">STAYING SAFE ONLINE SESSIONS FOR PARENTS AND PUPILS</a><br />
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Parents and carers of young people who attend Sandwell secondary schools are being invited to attend Clickwise sessions to learn about keeping safe online.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Sessions, also aimed at students who attend secondary schools, will focus on online safety and filters, child sexual exploitation (CSE) and exposure to pornography and other dangers online.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The sessions will be delivered by Adam Shaikh who is the Youth Commissioner of Sandwell and the Chair of SHAPE Youth Forum.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There will also be a performance and workshop focusing on spotting signs of grooming and exploitation from Loudmouth Education and Training, which are specialists in delivering safeguarding programmes.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Councillor Simon Hackett, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for children's services, is in full support of these sessions and urges parents and carers to book their places: "With children and young people now spending more time online it is essential they know how to stay safe.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">"These sessions will give parents and carers some really good tips on how they can keep their children safe online and look out for warning signs of potential dangers.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">"I urge people to get their place as soon as possible."</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The Clickwise project is holding seven sessions over the next six months in schools and academies in Sandwell.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">These will take place from 6pm - 8pm and doors will open at 5.30pm.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The venues for each of the events are as follows:</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Rowley </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">St Michael's School, Curral Road, Rowley Regis, B65 9AN </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Wednesday 29 November 2017</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tipton </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">ACE Academy, Tipton, DY4 7NR </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tuesday 30 January 2018</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Smethwick </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Holly Lodge, Holly Lane, Smethwick, B67 7JG </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Monday 5 February 2018</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">West Bromwich </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Sandwell Central Sixth, New Square, New Street, West Bromwich, B70 7PG </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Wednesday 21 March 2018</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">George Salter Academy, Davey Road, West Bromwich, B70 9UW </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Wednesday 2 May 2018</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Wednesbury </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Wodensborough Ormiston Academy, 148 Hydes Road, Wednesbury, WS10 0DR </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Wednesday 28 March 2018</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Oldbury </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Oldbury Academy, Pound Road, Oldbury, B68 8NE </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tuesday 17 April 2018</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To book a place on a session go to <a href="http://www.sandwell.gov.uk/shapeevents<http://www.sandwell.gov.uk/shapeevents" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.sandwell.gov.uk/shapeevents<http://www.sandwell.gov.uk/shapeevents</a>></span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Clickwise is a partnership venture led by Sandwell Council through the SHAPE Programme (child's voice initiative in Sandwell) with local organisations such as West Midlands Police, Brook, Youth Services and Sandwell's child sexual exploitation (CSE) team. The event is sponsored by the Safer Sandwell Partnership Local Police &amp; Crime Board (SSPCB).</span></p>
<p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Staying-safe-online-sessions-for-parents-and-child
Wed, 22 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMTAim Higher Broadening Horizon Triphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=16922
Fri, 10 Nov 2017 10:20:00 GMTNewsletter - October 2017/October_2017_newsletter.pdf
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 15:02:00 GMTC Block - Grand Opening
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">C Block - Grand Opening</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students and staff at OSCA are celebrating once again as we officially open another state-of-the-art teaching block.</span></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSC00462_copy_2.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="344" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSC00485.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="402" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSC00500.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="688" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/C-Block-Grand-Opening
Mon, 25 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Results 2017
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Results 2017</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Another Triumph for Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students and staff at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy in Tividale are celebrating today as they receive the best GCSE results ever in the school&rsquo;s history.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Overall, an impressive 57% of students achieved at least a Grade 4 or above in both English and Maths, following the government reforms of the subjects and the introduction of the new 1-9 grading system.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There was particular success in English, with 71% of students achieving a Grade 4 or higher and 59% achieve at least a Grade 5. In Maths, 60% of students attained a Grade 4 or above, despite this being the first year of the new, tougher exams.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy, which is rated &lsquo;Good&rsquo; by Ofsted and has recently been recognised as a National Support School, has yet more to celebrate with the continuing trend of year on year improvement.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Amongst the many successes of the day, some of OSCA&rsquo;s highest achievers include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;Sam&nbsp; &ndash; 2 Grade 9s, 1 Grade 7, 3 A*s, 2As, 1 Distinction* and 1 Merit</span></li>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;Paulina&nbsp; &ndash; 2 Grade 8s, 1 Grade 7, 1A*, 3 As and 2 Bs.</span></li>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;Leah&nbsp; &ndash; 1 Grade 8, 2 Grade 7s, 2 A*s, 2 As, 1 Distinction*, 1 Distinction and 1 B</span></li>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;Qasim&nbsp; &ndash; 2 Grade 8s, 3 A*s, 1 Distinction*, 2 As and 1 Merit</span></li>
<li dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Callum&nbsp; &ndash; 2 Grade 8s, 1 Grade 6, 5 As, 1 Distinction* and 1 Merit</span></li>
</ul>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA has also now completed the final phase of its redevelopment programme and the final remodelled &lsquo;C block&rsquo; will officially open to students in September 2017, accommodating the growth in students numbers being full and over subscribed for the third consecutive year.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Staff and Governors at the Academy have been preparing to celebrate in style the fantastic results with all students, which is a double celebration, following last week&rsquo;s best ever sixth form results.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Executive Principal at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, Marie McMahon said:</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&ldquo;I am once again so pleased and proud that we just keep going from strength to strength with each new set of results achieved. Our whole school community have worked so hard this year, and I could not be more delighted with these results, which are reflective of the dedication and commitment shown.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&ldquo;Standards have now risen year on year here at OSCA, and we keep raising the bar ever higher, as we move forward together on our journey to Outstanding.&rdquo;</span></p>
<p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
<p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p>
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</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Results-2017
Tue, 29 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMTJuly 2017 Newsletter/July_2017_newsletter.pdf
Wed, 19 Jul 2017 15:50:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Summer 2017
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Summer 2017</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">18th July 2017</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we approach the end of another busy term, I just wanted to give you a few updates, and confirm the end of term arrangements. And, once again, what a term it&rsquo;s been! Some highlights for me have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;Standards of education at OSCA are so high now that we have recently been designated as a National Support School in recognition of our outstanding, emerging practice. This means, the Department for Education have asked us to work on school improvement projects with other schools in need of support. I am very proud to say that it also means I have become a National Leader for Education, and we now have designated 7 Specialist Leaders of Education across the academy, and plan to expand this team next term;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our learning environment is superb now too, with C block scheduled to open by September, completing our &pound;12 million rebuild and refurb plan. I have had a tour inside, and it looks amazing. I know we are all looking forward not just to seeing it in operation, but to coming back to a construction free zone in September too!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are the top performing school in the whole borough again this year for attendance, for the 4th consecutive year, and one of THE top performing nationally. This matters so much given the proven link between high attendance and high achievement in exams. Indeed, we have also had an impact in improvements borough wide this year, through training local schools in best practice. The six local schools we have worked with on attendance have improved on average by 1.5% on last year- a huge increase in attendance terms;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are once again full and oversubscribed for the 4th consecutive year, with a long waiting list, and once again have had to attend the appeals panel last week as some pupils who didn&rsquo;t get into OSCA were so disappointed, they appealed again to come here and not to the school they had been allocated! Even though we are so popular now, we won&rsquo;t expand any further, as I am keen to keep to my &lsquo;medium is marvellous&rsquo; mantra, and maintain the family feel so prevalent at our academy;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;Our OSCA Awards Ceremony last week, attended by approximately 400 guests and proud parents and guardians. We gave out 150 awards, all for outstanding effort and achievement. It was particularly impressive to see our &lsquo;Brilliant Club&rsquo; Graduates in full university gowns and mortar boards, already producing university level assignments;</span></li>
<li><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside of all that hard work, we have managed to have a lot of fun too! Students have benefitted once again from a myriad of enrichment opportunities. Please do click on the link below to check out our latest newsletter, for a flavour of some of these.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/July_2017_newsletter.pdf">July 2017 Newsletter</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As many parents and guardians will be buying new uniform in preparation for September just a reminder that the uniform list is on the website on the parents' page. We have had excellent support from the overwhelming majority of parents in meeting the enforcement of uniform and ethos rules this year. One thorny issue in this can be the definition of formal shoes. We have therefore on the uniform page of the website provided examples of what the Academy means by these, and to help parents avoid spending money on shoes which are not suitable. Many sports shops are branding items as shoes that aren&rsquo;t actually shoes (and charging huge amounts in the process!), so please do check on the website. Please can I also reiterate that trousers must be formal too, no leggings/jeggings/very tight styles either please. As I always say, uniform is the physical manifestation of a student's attitude to school, so thank you in advance for working with us to ensure they get it right.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I understand that the summer holidays is a time to relax and perhaps for parents to allow our young people to have a bit more freedom as teenagers. Please can I ask however that any summer piercings/extreme hair colourings are removed by the start of term in September?. Again, please visit our website if you have any queries about expectations, or contact your child's Head of House.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The website also has all the information you need about our new supplier, as well as a link to the finance department if you have any queries. The remaining selling dates at OSCA for your convenience are:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial;">Thursday 3rd August - 3pm to 6pm</span></strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial;">Friday 4th August - 3pm to 6pm</span></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In terms of practical arrangements, the academy will finish for students at:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial;">12.00pm on Friday 21st July</span></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial;">&nbsp;OSCA re-opens for years 7 and 11 on Wednesday 6th September at 8.35am</span></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial;">&nbsp;OSCA re-opens for all other year groups on Thursday 7th September at 8.35am</span></strong></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For all other key dates next term please see the newsletter, and the draft calendar on the website.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As a reward for students for such a successful term, Friday 21st will be a non-uniform day. Students should bring in &pound;1 for a charitable donation. Please can I ask you that students do still wear clothes suitable for a school setting. I appreciate we have had some warm weather, but nothing too short or too revealing please, or students risk being sent home to change, which would be a shame.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, thank you once again for all of your support this academic year. Our thoughts now lie with years 11 and 13, and we are hoping and praying that this summer will top last year&rsquo;s fantastic results, and bring our best ever set of exam results, so watch this space! I am so proud and pleased of everything we have achieved together this year, and look forward to celebrating even greater successes in the new academic year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes for a happy (and sunny!) summer holiday,</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Principal-s-Letter-to-Parents-Summer-2017
Wed, 19 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMTInformation for Parents/Guardians
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Information for Parents/Guardians</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you know we take health and safety very seriously at our academy. We live in complex times, and need to be prepared for all eventualities. One new policy we have had to develop, in light of national and international events, is a lockdown policy. Essentially, this is to cover highly unlikely, but of course not impossible events, to be sure we are ready to react if required. These events might include: A reported incident or civil disturbance in the local area which potentially poses a risk to the academy community; a dangerous individual in the locality; an intruder on the academy site with the potential to pose a risk to students, staff and visitors; or a warning being received regarding a local risk of air pollution (e.g. smoke plume, gas cloud) etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To that end, we are planning this afternoon a practice drill with staff and students. <strong><u>I stress this will be a practice, and we have no safety concerns at all</u></strong>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We will explain to the students in advance today why we are doing this, so they do not become alarmed. We will evaluate how it goes, and do an annual practice to ensure everything runs smoothly going forward. Please do contact your child&rsquo;s house team if you wish to clarify anything.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ms McMahon</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Information-for-Parents-Guardians
Mon, 17 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMTNewscast Special Edition - Induction Day
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Newscast Special Edition - Induction Day</h1>
<p><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/Chdt64YsCeA" width="600" height="336" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">For more OSCA Newscast videos please click <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/OSCA-Newscast/">here</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Newscast-Special-Edition-Induction-Day
Wed, 05 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMTExam Season Letter - Study Leave 2017
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Exam Season Letter - Study Leave 2017</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/ Carer,</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are now entering the final weeks of our year 11 exam season. We are extremely proud of our year 11 cohort, and the mature way that they have conducted their revision and exams this year &ndash; and we encourage them to not take their foot of the pedal in these final two weeks. As outlined before the half term break we have made arrangements for year 11 to continue to support them and I thought it was worth reiterating these below. Also please find attached <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/12th_june_Exam_plan.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Exam Cram Plan">details of the exam crams</a> for the rest of the exam season, as well as your invite to the <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Exam_season_letter_study_leave_2017_altered_plan.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leavers Assembly Letter">Leavers assembly</a>&nbsp;(links are also below). Please do complete and return this slip as instructed so that we can celebrate together of our student&rsquo;s accomplishments during their time at OSCA.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;On Tuesday 13th June Students will be permitted to leave the academy site at 1pm. Except for those sitting GCSE Hospitality or with a lesson to attend such as Business or BTEC Sport.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">From Tuesday 13th June, students will commence study leave.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">They should continue to attend lessons for any ongoing GCSE subjects until they have sat their final examination in this subject. Following the final exam in a subject, students may remain at home to complete private study and revision for remaining exams.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;Students following BTEC courses should continue to attend BTEC lessons as normal until their portfolio has been completed and signed off by the subject teacher. Again, after this point, students can use the time at home to revise and prepare for remaining exams. Students should access the academy via reception and sign in and out, as they enter and leave the building.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;Students should continue to wear full academy uniform at all times when attending the academy, including examinations. In the past there has been a tradition of students signing shirts as a memento, students wishing to do so should bring in a spare shirt to be signed and not use the one they are wearing. As well as being against academy rules, anyone wearing a shirt with writing on will be barred from exam rooms as per the examboard guidelines.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As ever, we wish our students the very best of luck in this final round of exams and we look forward to celebrating their hard work at the leaver&rsquo;s assembly, Prom and most of all on results day in August. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank parents for your continued support at home with revision and exam preparation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mr Myk Wagstaff</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/12th_june_Exam_plan.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Exam Cram Plan">Exam Cram Plan</a><br /><a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Exam_season_letter_study_leave_2017_altered_plan.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leaver's Assembly Letter">Leaver's Assembly Letter</a><br /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Exam-Season-Letter-Study-Leave-2017
Fri, 09 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMTLetter - Leaver's Assembly/Exam_season_letter_study_leave_2017_altered_plan.pdf
Fri, 09 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMTVisit Azores 2018/Azores_2018_Website.pdf
Fri, 19 May 2017 14:13:00 GMTSupreme Court Judgment - Absences
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Supreme Court Judgment - Absences</h1>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/The_Supreme_Court_judgment__2_.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supreme Court Document"><img title="Supreme Court1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Supreme_Court1.jpg" alt="Supreme Court 1" width="600" height="847" /></a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/The_Supreme_Court_judgment__2_.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Supreme Court Document"><img title="Supreme Court 2" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Supreme_Court2.jpg" alt="Supreme Court 2" width="600" height="844" /></a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Supreme-Court-Judgment-Absences
Wed, 17 May 2017 00:00:00 GMTPrefect Team 2017-18
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Prefect Team 2017-18</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are very pleased to announce, following a rigorous application process, that our prefect team for next year have been picked and have today received their ties.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To support our year 11 students as we move into the exam season the new prefect team will begin taking over lunch time duties from Monday.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Congratulations to our fantastic new team and Good luck to the <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Head-Boy--Girl/" title="Prefect Team of 2016-17">prefect team of 2016-17</a> as they begin exam season!</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Myk Wagstaff&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Assistant Principal - Curriculum and Progress, SLE</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><img title="Prefect Team 2017-18" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSCF6062_1.jpg" alt="Prefect Team 2017-18" width="600" height="284" /></p>
<p dir="auto"><img title="Prefect Team 2017-18" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSCF6064_1.jpg" alt="Prefect Team 2017-18" width="600" height="290" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Prefect-Team-2017-18
Mon, 15 May 2017 00:00:00 GMTKS3 Loughborough Triphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 12 May 2017 10:21:00 GMTIceland Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 27 Apr 2017 12:05:00 GMT"Top Teacher and Staff" - Birmingham Mail
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">"Top Teacher and Staff" - Birmingham Mail</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image011.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="518" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Top-Teacher-and-Staff-Birmingham-Mail
Mon, 24 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newsletter April 2017/April_2017_newsletter.pdf
Thu, 06 Apr 2017 09:59:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - April 2017
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - April 2017</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we approach the end of another highly successful term here at OSCA, I am writing to share a few of the highlights of the term with you, and to confirm end of term arrangements. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Firstly, the absolute stand-out news this year for me has been OSCA being designated as a National Support School. We are now one of only two secondary schools in the borough to have received this award. In short, it means that the standard of education we now offer at OSCA is so good, that the Department for Education want us to share this excellent practice to support other schools. It makes me beam with pride to think how far we have come in four years (when you may recall the academy was considered a failing school by Ofsted, I was the 4th Principal in 9 months, and only 140 pupils had chosen to join the academy in year 7, for instance) to now being so close to the cusp of outstanding that we are able to support other schools. What an accolade for Team OSCA, our students and our community! I know we will learn lots from the support work too, and bring the best of what we see back to strengthen practice further here at OSCA.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Secondly, you may be aware that local year 6 pupils have now had their secondary school places confirmed. I am delighted to share with you the fantastic news that we are full and over subscribed for the fourth consecutive year! Don't forget, four years ago only 140 pupils wanted to come to OSCA in year 7, this year we will have 210! We also have a waiting list of students who were not able to secure a place. This is a reflection, of course, of all the superb work we have been doing on raising standards here over the past four years. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students - all with your superb support, of course! As standards have risen, so too our reputation has justly improved, and our aspirations continue to rise too. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Another highlight for me has been becoming the first school in the whole country to win the Gold Award for CEIAG, for the brilliant work we do with students on careers education. Yet another fantastic accolade for the team. This work was also recognised by Ormiston Academies Trust, where Mrs Laird was the national staff award winner for her work in this area at the Annual OAT Awards Ceremony. That night was another where I was bursting with pride, as one of our OSCA 6th students, Holly Silwood, won the National Creativity Award too!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OSCA show was once again a triumph this year, as we were transported to the exotic, eastern land of Agrabah on Aladdin's magic carpet. Team PAPA and the students have outdone themselves once again, with an amazing array of characters, talents and effects, and a fantastic few Arabian Nights were had by all!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Another really exciting event this year has been our &pound;2.5 million refurb of C block. It is starting to really take shape now, and is on track for an August completion. Watch this space for information on the launch in September.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For more information on these, and lots of other highlights, do keep a regular check on our website, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OrmistonSandwellAcademy/" target="_blank" title="OSCA Facebook">Facebook page</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/OSCATweets" target="_blank" title="OSCATweets">Twitter feed </a>etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we continue to march on, on our journey to becoming outstanding, we are keeping our eye on the day job too, and never forget the basics. Standards continue to rise this year in every area of academy life - teaching and learning, behaviour and safety, and progress and achievement in particular. We continue to be the highest performing school in the whole borough for attendance, and indeed in the whole of the country! This matters so much of course, given the proven link between high attendance and high achievement and progress. It is no coincidence that, as attendance improves every year, so do our results. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">HOT OFF THE PRESS: You will no doubt see in the press that the Supreme Court today have ruled that parents still may NOT take their children out of school in term time. We know there has been some confusion over this recently, so I thought I would just draw it to your attention to confirm the law stands.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As ever though, the spring term is when we have that last concerted push with our exam cohorts. Year 11 have just undergone yet another round of mock exams, and I am delighted with how hard so many of them have worked. We are quietly very confident that this is going to be our best set of results yet, and will leave no stone unturned in our quest to achieve this. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside all our hard work, we&rsquo;ve managed to have some fun too of course! I really can't thank staff enough for some of the incredible opportunities on offer to our students, and for the time and energy they devote to this, above and beyond the day job. This term alone we have experienced:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; A maths and history trip to Belgium</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; A science trip to Cern, Switzerland</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; The final of the Gifted and Talented STEM competition</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Edgmond Hall</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Ingestre Hall for an Arts residential</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Performances in local schools and community spaces</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Birmingham University (A Russell Group University)for the final of a physics quiz</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; King&rsquo;s College London (Also a Russell Group University), for the Brilliant Club launch</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; University of Birmingham for the Salters&rsquo; Chemistry Festival</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; The University of Wolverhampton</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Loughborough University</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Cineworld to view a local school&rsquo;s film premier</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; The Black Country Schools&rsquo; Games Final</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; London Inspire </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; West Bromwich Albion football ground</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Horse therapy at a centre near Tamworth</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; The Big Bang Fair at the NEC</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; The Manchester United football ground for an international England match</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; ThinkTank</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Women into engineering at Jaguar Landrover</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; Flip Out Trampoline Park </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&bull; And last, but by no means least, the Iceland trip departs today!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please follow the link to our <a href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/April_2017_newsletter.pdf" target="_blank" title="OSCA Newsletter April 2017">newsletter</a>, which highlights just a few of the many enrichment activities students have taken part in too, and, again, check out our website for lots more information and photos of events we have participated in. Do take a moment to catch up with our weekly Newscast too, where students film and produce their own weekly report on academy events; it's always very informative. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy will close for students at 12pm on Friday 7th April 2017 for the Easter break. The new term will start again for students on Tuesday 25th April, 8.30am sharp! Please see lots of other key dates for next term and beyond listed in the newsletter. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, thank you once again for the excellent support you provide us as parents and guardians, I know you know how important that partnership is for success. I hope you all have a great Easter, and a happy and relaxing few weeks. I look forward to welcoming all the students back at the end of April, refreshed and ready for the rigours of next term! </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Executive Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-April-2017
Thu, 06 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMTFlip Out Reward Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 05 Apr 2017 11:22:00 GMTSenior Prefect Team 2017/18
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<h1 class="HTXT">Senior Prefect Team 2017/18</h1>
<p style="display: block; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are very pleased and proud to announced the Senior Prefect Team for 2017/18. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have begun the process slightly earlier than normal to allow a smoother hand over with the existing team and relieve them of the duties post Easter ready to sit their final exams.</span></p>
<p style="display: block; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Head Girl : Prabhjot Head Boy: Leke</span></p>
<div style="display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: #1d2129; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" class="text_exposed_show">
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Deputy Head Girls: Rhea &amp; Katie Deputy Head boys: Jon &amp; Paramveer</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Senior Prefects: </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Megan </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Sara</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Kirandeep </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Hammaad </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Samson</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Jerome</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The decision this year has been harder than ever with so many fantastic applicants who performed brilliantly during the selection process. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please congratulate these students when you see them, and thank you to Mr Ahmed for arranging the selection process, and all of you that nominated students.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Next Year's senior prefect team will be working alongside our current team over the next few weeks to ensure a smooth handover.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">PREFECT TEAM 2017/18</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Once again this year we are opening the Prefect Roles up for applications, rather than selection by the Senior Prefect team. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you know being a prefect is a prestigious role, and with it come very high expectations from staff, students and all members of the OSCA Community.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We will soon open up the application process for these roles for all year 10 students that meet our prefect criteria:</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">* 98% attendance or above</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">* 5 lates or less</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">* 5 behaviour points or less</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">* No time in Reflection Room, Saturday detentions or Exclusions</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Application forms will be available from Next week via email and from the Student Hub for any year 10 student meeting the criteria and wishing to apply.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="Head Boy &amp; Head Girl" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Head_Boy_and_Girl_2017-18.jpg" alt="Head Boy &amp; Head Girl" width="600" height="402" /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="Deputies" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Deputies_2017.jpg" alt="Deputies" width="600" height="402" /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="Senior Prefect Team 2017/18" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Senior_Team_2017-18.jpg" alt="Senior Prefect Team 2017/18" width="600" height="402" /></span></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Senior-Prefect-Team-2017-18
Fri, 31 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMTFinish time for students Friday 7th April
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<h1 class="HTXT">Finish time for students Friday 7th April</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students will break up for the Easter Holidays at 12pm on Friday 7th April 2017.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Finish-time-for-students-Friday-7th-April
Mon, 27 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Principal Chosen for key School Support Role
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Principal Chosen for key School Support Role</h1>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy Principal chosen for key school support role.</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The Executive Principal and staff at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy (OSCA) have been selected for a top role supporting schools in challenging circumstances.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon, who leads the academy, sponsored by Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT), has been appointed to the role of National Leader of Education (NLE) by the National College of Teaching and Leadership, part of the Department for Education.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">NLEs, along with staff in their school - designated a national support school (NSS) - use their success and professionalism to provide additional leadership capability in other schools.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">They are deployed to suit the needs of each school needing support. The type of support provided is flexible and can sometimes involve NLEs becoming executive headteachers. They also have responsibility for developing the next generation of NLEs and national support schools.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon, Executive Principal at OSCA, said:</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&ldquo;I am so proud that all the fantastic work we have been doing at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy over the last few years has been recognised by the awarding of this status. As well as continuing to strive for excellence here at OSCA, we are delighted we will now be able to share our expertise to help drive improvement in other schools too.&rdquo;</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ms McMahon, who has been Executive Principal of OSCA since February 2013, has led the academy through a period of rapid progress which:</span></p>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Has seen the school judged to be Good by Ofsted</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Has led to a significant improvement in students&rsquo; results, and</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Has seen the completion of a multi-million pound build project.</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Many NLEs/NSSs report improved outcomes at the schools they support.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Roger Pope, Chair of the National College for Teaching and Leadership, said:</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&ldquo;It&rsquo;s fantastic that heads like Marie McMahon have the passion and ambition to help improve the life chances of young people, not just in their own but in other schools as well.</span></p>
<p style="margin-right: -24.15pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&ldquo;The aim of national leaders of education is to drive improvement in under-performing schools. <br />We now have over 1,200 NLEs and we&rsquo;re working to increase this number further to spread educational excellence everywhere.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Successful heads have been invited to attend a formal induction and training event for the role in driving school improvement.<br /><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For further information contact Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy on 0121 5525501</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For more information about the NLE programme visit <a href="http://www.gov.uk/nctl">www.gov.uk/nctl</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Principal-Chosen-for-key-School-Support-Role
Mon, 27 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMTBig Bang Fair photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 17 Mar 2017 11:33:00 GMTOSCA Watches Man Unitedhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 17 Mar 2017 11:30:00 GMTL4S Day March 2017http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 14 Mar 2017 11:20:00 GMTAladdin Performancehttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=15684
Mon, 06 Mar 2017 13:06:00 GMTMessage to Parents/Guardians of Year 9 Students
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<h1 class="HTXT">Message to Parents/Guardians of Year 9 Students</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To: the parents/guardians of all year 9 students</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have had a few queries about a letter sent directly to all year 9 students from Sandwell Council. Just to reassure you this is a standard letter which the Department for Education has mandated all councils to send to all year 9 students nationally where there are UTCs locally. It is simply for your information, and there are no implications for our students here at OSCA. In fact, it&rsquo;s business as usual!</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are confident that we have an excellent curriculum offer at OSCA, with lots of breadth and depth, and of course our students already benefit from starting their GCSE courses at the start of year 9, so they have a head start as we move into year 10.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Hope that clarifies any uncertainty, and please do get in touch with us if you have any further queries. Best wishes,</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Message-to-Parents-Guardians-of-Year-9-Students
Tue, 28 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newsletter February 2017/February_2017_newsletter.pdf
Thu, 16 Feb 2017 13:31:00 GMTLondon Inspire Trip
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<h1 class="HTXT">London Inspire Trip</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Friday 10th February, 36 students visited London to be awed and inspired by what the Capital city has achieved politically, economically, and culturally.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">They explored several museums before visiting key landmarks such as the House of Parliament, the Ministry of Defense and the Cenotaph. They even had the opportunity to walk down Downing Street, where they were less than a metre from the very prestigious (and shiny!) number 10 door. Unfortunately, as o<span class="text_exposed_show">ne of our students asked, Theresa May was not in!!</span></span></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">By then it was only 3pm! So they continued their journey to inspire the students, by visiting the National Gallery, Leicester Square and Covent Garden where the students experienced the heartbeat of London City.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Despite the jam packed day, the lovely weather of rain and snow, and over 15,000 steps of walking, the students were super stars and an absolute credit to the school!</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/London-Inspire-Trip
Mon, 13 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMTTesco Aladdin Performance
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Tesco Aladdin Performance</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Saturday afternoon, cast members of the forthcoming production of Aladdin performed a selection of songs from the show at Tesco in Dudley.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students sang with confidence and true OSCA sprit, some having never performed in public before. They even gave a sneak preview of the show's costumes, much to the delight of staff, parents and shoppers. Their behaviour was outstanding and really did us and themselves proud.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Performers</strong>:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Bradley </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Jerome</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Simran</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tyler</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Katie</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Technical team</strong>:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Samson</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Jon</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Tesco-Aladdin-Performance
Mon, 06 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMTThe Nightmare After Christmas
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<h1 class="HTXT">The Nightmare After Christmas</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Friday afternoon, Year 11 Music students hosted their 'Nightmare After Christmas' event, as part of the Managing a Music Product unit.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The event featured musical and dance performances by Year 7, 9 and 11 students and was a great success, attended by pupils, staff and parents. The entire show has been planned and developed by the BTEC class over the last few months and on the night they showed great team spirit and total professionalism under the pressure of their first sh<span class="text_exposed_show">ow! The event raised &pound;75 through tickets, biscuit and cupcake sales, which will go towards this year's Year 11 prom.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We'd like to say a huge thank you to all staff who attended, for helping to make the event such a success. In particular, a special mention to Mrs Blondeau for her wonderful singing and the rest of PAPA for their continued moral support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">More photos to follow.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/IMG_1855.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="337" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/IMG_1851.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="337" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/IMG_1856.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="356" /></span></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/The-Nightmare-After-Christmas
Mon, 30 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMTAladdin Trip to Ingestre Hallhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 25 Jan 2017 09:09:00 GMTBBC's Radio 2 500 Words Short Story Competition!
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<h1 class="HTXT">BBCs Radio 2 500 Words Short Story Competition!</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="_4yxo"><strong>Do you love writing? </strong><br /><strong>Are you aged between 10 and 13 on the 16th June 2017?</strong><br /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Enter this year&rsquo;s BBC Radio 2 <span class="_4yxo">500 Words</span> short story competition! </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In 2016, an amazing 123,000 children took part. To enter, write an original fictional story on any subject or theme in 500 words or fewer. The stories will be judged on creative use of language.</span></p>
<div class="_39k5 _5s6c">
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<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Winners will have their short story read live on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2 by superstar celebrities; their stories to be heard by around 10 million Radio 2 listeners!</span></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The top fifty short-listed entrants will receive a pair of tickets to the final, which this year is to be held at the Tower of London. The top prize winner will receive Chris Evans&rsquo; height in books and 500 books for their school!</span><br /><br /></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><strong><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please see Mrs Rixson for further details.</span></strong></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><strong><span class="_4yxo" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br />The closing date is 7.00pm sharp on Thursday 23rd February, so start writing!</span></strong></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><span class="_4yxo" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br />Students in years 7, 8 and 9 have continued with the Renaissance Accelerated Reader <br />Programme this year, earning points by passing fun online book quizzes.</span></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><span class="_4yxo" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Big congratulations go out to Ahmad (V8), Vardah (V3) and Imraj (P3) who were our top readers for the 2016 Autumn term.</span></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><strong><span class="_4yxo" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">They will each receive a &pound;25.00 book token.</span></strong></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"></div>
<div class="_2cuy _3dgx _2vxa"><span class="_4yxo" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/e317c09f7d10c70edf829157d0a69d15.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="243" /></span></div>
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</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/BBC-s-Radio-2-500-Words-Short-Story-Competition
Wed, 25 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMTOSCA 6th Form Closure Consultation
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA 6th Form Closure Consultation</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please see attached a consultation on the possible closure of OSCA 6th, which I would welcome you and the students' views on. Although I feel a little bit sad to be consulting on this, as the end of an era is always bittersweet, I feel very optimistic that this is the right recommendation to make. We currently only have 30 students in year 13, and 8 students in year 12, and this is clearly not viable going forward. Fortunately in Sandwell, and in neighbouring authorities, there exists a wealth of very high quality provision. Our small scale centre cannot offer the breadth and depth that they do. We already offer outstanding Information, Advice and Guidance here at OSCA, and will continue to do so to ensure every student makes the right choices for them post 16.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you know, the last few years have seen OSCA go from strength to strength, and I really want our full focus to be on the journey towards outstanding across years 7 to 11. I think this is the right next move to enable us to do so.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please note: the current year 12 will continue into year 13 with no changes and no disruption to their studies.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Clearly, your views are very important in the process, so please do take the time to read our rationale, and to complete the consultation form if you would like to opine.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/OSCA_6th_Form_Consultation_Document.pdf" target="_blank" title="OSCA 6th Form Consultation Document"><br />OSCA 6th Form Consultation Document</a><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/OSCA_6th_Form_Consultation_Response_Form__1_.docx" target="_blank" title="OSCA 6th Form Consultation Response Form">OSCA 6th Form Consultation Response Form</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-6th-form-closure-consultation
Wed, 25 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMTSTEM G & T Competition
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<h1 class="HTXT">STEM G &amp; T Competition</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Matei (Year 10) and Niamh (Year 9) went to The University of Sheffield yesterday. They both took part in the Final of the STEM G &amp; T competition. Both did extremely well and worked so hard during the activity.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The activity they had to do was programme a robot to perform certain tasks and go through a certain pathway. This programme was designed for undergraduate students, both students have no previous knowledge of mechanical engineering so both did wonderfully under the circumstances. At times the activity was frustrating, however both showed resilience and carried and never gave up even when there was a countdown at the end.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">They both enjoyed the day and worked well within a team even interacting with students from different schools. Both students were a credit to the academy and were brilliantly behaved.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/STEM-G-T-Competition
Wed, 11 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMTOlympian - Daniel Caines
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<h1 class="HTXT">Olympian "tops the podium" at OSCA!</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">Students at OSCA were given the opportunity to come face to face with one of Britains top runners on Wednesday 4th January when former Olympian and World Champion Daniel Caines visited the academy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">Daniel visited the academy as part of the Sky Sports Living for Sport initiative, delivered in partnership with the Youth Sports Trust and organised by OSCA PE department, to promote the use of lifelong and interpersonal skills, not just in sport but in preparation for futures ahead.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">Students in years 7 to 9 took the opportunity to listen to Daniel's journey from a potentially career ending injury to becoming one of Great Britain's top runners over 400m in assemblies, whilst PE and Sport students from years 10 and 11 participated in 'keys to success' workshops led by Daniel, who is an athlete mentor for the Sky sports scheme. Daniel also met with the academy Sports Council to offer advice and provide ideas and ways to use student voice as a tool in creating partnerships across the academy and within the local community.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">The day was a huge success!</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Olympian-tops-the-podium-at-OSCA
Mon, 09 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - December 2016/December_2016_newsletter.pdf
Wed, 14 Dec 2016 14:56:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Christmas 2016
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<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Christmas 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, here we are again&hellip; the end of another year approaches&hellip;2017 is just around the corner&hellip;and all remains well here at OSCA! I hope you too are all well, and are enjoying any preparations for the holidays ahead!&nbsp; As we approach the end of another busy, highly successful term, I just wanted to keep you up to date on recent events, and to confirm arrangements for the end of term and the start of the New Year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Clearly, maximising achievements in exams remains our number 1 priority.&nbsp; Year 11 have had a busy few weeks of mock exams, helping them to prepare for 'the real thing' and we have been delighted with their maturity and motivation to do well. &nbsp;As you know, OSCA achieved its best GCSE results ever in the summer, and we have raised the bar even higher for 2017 in line with national changes to the qualifications landscape, so the pressure is on! &nbsp;We look forward to celebrating some excellent mock results with year 11 over the coming weeks.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside our work on preparing students to get the best possible exam results,&nbsp;you know that I am equally passionate that learning should also be fun.&nbsp; We certainly have had some fantastic enrichment activities over the last half term to complement all the work we are doing improving teaching and learning and raising standards.&nbsp; Full details of these are available on the website, and in particular in our end of term newsletter which you can download <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/December_2016_newsletter.pdf" target="_blank" title="OSCA Newsletter - December 2016">here.</a><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This also includes key dates for your diary. The academy re-opens for students at <strong>8.30 am on Wednesday 4th January</strong>, for the spring term 2017.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This term, we have continued to receive yet more awards for more areas of outstanding practice! These have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The Basic Skills Award, for our excellent work on improving standards of literacy and numeracy across the academy, which helps boost every student&rsquo;s future success</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The Duke of Edinburgh Accredited Centre Award, for our burgeoning and blossoming DofE programme</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The OAT Gold award for attendance once again- highest across the whole OAT network nationally, the whole borough, and one of the highest across all schools nationally (always such an accolade of course given the proven link between outstanding attendance and outstanding achievement)</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In other words, lots more &lsquo;Oscars&rsquo; for &lsquo;OSCA&rsquo;! Do check out our &lsquo;awards wall&rsquo; in reception to celebrate our successes on your next visit to the academy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Word of our excellent practice in many areas has also led to us delivering training for colleagues across the OAT network this term. We have so far run three training events: one on raising standards through outstanding teaching and learning; one on maximising attendance to maximise achievement; and one on raising standards through improving students&rsquo; literacy skills. It is great to see the fantastic work of so many colleagues being recognised well beyond the academy and the borough, and to have had such encouraging feedback from those colleagues who attended. Well done to all colleagues involved.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As a reward for the further&nbsp;improved standards of uniform, behaviour and attendance across the Academy this term, on Friday 16th December we will be taking part in &lsquo;Wear a Christmas Jumper Day&rsquo;. This is optional and open to all staff and students at a charge of &pound;1. This is for a great cause where money raised goes to three charities - Macmillan Cancer Support, Make A Wish, &amp; Save The Children. The academy will finish on <strong><u>Friday 16<sup>th</sup> December at 12pm</u></strong> for all students.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please note that lessons will continue as normal this week, so it is really important all students have 100% attendance even in the run up to Christmas, so they do not miss out on any learning. Please note that attendance on Friday too is compulsory for years 7-10, and essential if students wish to be eligible for next term's reward trip.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In response to concerns raised, and with effect from Wednesday 4<sup>th</sup> January, please note that both external school gates will be locked half an hour after the end of the school day. That means they will be locked at 3.30pm after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, at 4.20 on a Monday, and at 1.50 on a Friday.&nbsp; This means that all students staying for after school clubs and activities will need to exit the building through reception (unless they are participating in a PE led activity when they can use the PE door). The change is being implemented for safeguarding reasons, and to ensure the site is secure after school.&nbsp;We appreciate it will mean a longer walk for some students who normally exit via the back gate after activities, but believe that keeping students safe in school and subject to the same level of supervision as during the school day is worth this inconvenience.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, thank you once again for your support and partnership this term.&nbsp; Attendance remains at a record high, behaviour referrals are down again, ethos and the standard of uniform are excellent, and the quality of teaching and learning is rising all the time.&nbsp; Watch this space for further developments and innovations in the new year- no resting on our laurels at OSCA!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It is really encouraging that all of these improvements continue to&nbsp;have an extremely positive impact on OSCA's reputation and popularity.&nbsp;As you know, we are already full and over-subscribed with a waiting list in years 7, 8 and 9.&nbsp; We&nbsp;now know from the local authority that we are likely to find this replicated for the new year 7 in 2017. Indeed, we already have almost 350 applications for the 180 places available, so competition for places is likely to be fierce once again!&nbsp; A great accolade for all the fantastic work we are doing here in our determination to make OSCA a beacon of excellence in Sandwell and beyond.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am so proud of everything staff and students have achieved this year, and of how they have responded to a continual raising of the bar as we move towards outstanding. Of course, none of this could happen without your support as parents and guardians, and I look forward to sharing even more successes with you in the new year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">With best wishes for a peaceful and enjoyable holiday, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Principal-s-Letter-to-Parents-Christmas-2016
Wed, 14 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMTOSCA's Festive Feast
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA's Festive Feast</h1>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="9ivse-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="9ivse-0-0"><span data-text="true">On Friday 9th Dec after school OSCA had two groups (Makoni's Kitchen and Festive Feast Planning Committee) host their Festive Feast Christmas dinner. </span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="5c4op-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="5c4op-0-0"><span data-text="true">Niahm, Holly, Zanib, Abbie, Amy, Sanpreet, Hayat, Hope, Noor, Harsimran, and Isabel cooked a fantastic dinner - catering for 50 people!</span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="9c8lg-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="9c8lg-0-0">&nbsp;</span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="542cf-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="542cf-0-0"><span data-text="true">They worked from 11:00am - 2:20pm preparing the massive feast under the superb direction of Mrs. Makoni , Miss Alu, and Mrs. Chambers and did not disappoint!</span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1p0b6-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="1p0b6-0-0"><span data-text="true">Upon the bell at 1:20pm, Sara, Simran, Aamnah, Simran, Kimran, Arashdeep, Samranjeet and Davina (also assisted by Demi and Heather) managed to dress the chairs and tables and transform O9/O10 into a warm yet vibrant festive hall. </span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="ea3dd-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="ea3dd-0-0">&nbsp;</span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2ikch-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="2ikch-0-0"><span data-text="true">The relatives and friends of the cooking team, 10 guests from Warren's Hall elderly home, and a selection of staff joined the students for their feast. The dinner stretched on to nearly 5pm with students stopping even later to ensure everything was tidied so that we could be back to business Monday morning.</span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="ejsqh-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;" data-offset-key="ejsqh-0-0"><span data-text="true">Happy Holidays - may your holiday season be filled with the kindness and energy that was present on Friday.</span></span></div>
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<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d2oof-0-0"><span style="font-family: arial;" data-offset-key="d2oof-0-0">&nbsp;</span></div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-s-Festive-Feast
Wed, 14 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMTYear 8 Class Band
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<h1 class="HTXT">Year 8 Class Band</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our Year 8 Class band are now into their second year of playing and following their successful performance at Tesco on Sunday 4th December wanted to share some festive tunes with you all. Remember these students have only had their instruments for just over 12 months and have never played before.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our Class band is even more special as we are the only class band in the country that has oboes and Bassoons &ndash; these students picked these instruments up for the first time 8 weeks ago! See if you can spot them in our video and Merry Christmas form Year 8 Class Band!</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NELPykveaSA?wmode=opaque&amp;theme=dark" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CN4Gsu637Pk?wmode=opaque&amp;theme=dark" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></span></p>
<p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-8-Class-Band
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMTYear 7 Class Band
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<h1 class="HTXT">Year 7 Class Band</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Not to be out done by the Year 8 Class band, our Year 7 Class band wanted to say merry Christmas with their version of Jingle Bells!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IJB08LzeHpA?wmode=opaque&amp;theme=dark" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-7-Class-Band-08122016151816
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMTIce Skating Reward Triphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 06 Dec 2016 09:19:00 GMTTesco Christmas Performance
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<h1 class="HTXT">Tesco Christmas Performance</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Sunday around 20 OSCA students performed a selection of music at the Tesco Superstore in Dudley.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mr Wagstaff's Year 8 Class band played a repertoire of festive and film music that had the crowd singing along. Year 10 BTEC Music students performed their own energetic arrangement of Santa Claus is Coming to Town. Class band were joined by Kate, Anne and Merle from Sandwell Music and Arts Service and our own Amari from Year 11.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All students were outstanding in their behaviour<span class="text_exposed_show"> and presentation, and did the Academy proud showcasing their fantastic performance skills. The feedback from parents, members of the public and Tesco staff has been wonderful.</span></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We'd like to say a huge thank you to Myk, Becky and the SMAS staff for giving up their Sunday to support the event.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 8:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Jamie</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Isabelle</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Kelsey</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Harvey</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Ifsa</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Isabelle </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Kamil </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Jamie</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Aimee </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Steve </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Olivia </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Sanaa</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 10:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Jon </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Samason </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Codie</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Adam </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Jocyme</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Lauren</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 11:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Amari</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image001.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image002.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Tesco-Christmas-Performance
Tue, 06 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMTInternational Athlete Guest Speakerhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Diary/International-Athlete-Guest-Speaker-2017-01-04/
Mon, 05 Dec 2016 10:42:00 GMTFestive Fun Competition Entry Form
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<h1 class="HTXT">Festive Fun Competition Entry Form</h1>
<p style="text-align: left;">N<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">ame the teacher singing each line of the song &lsquo;Merry Christmas Everybody&rsquo;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Entry forms can be downloaded <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Festive_Fun_-_Entry_Form.docx">here</a> and should be returned to <a href="mailto:santa@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">santa@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The first correct entry received from each of the following categories will receive a prize in end of term assembly:</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Key Stage 3&nbsp; (Years 7-9)<br />Key stage 4 (Years 10-11)<br />Key Stage 5 (Years 12-13)<br />Staff</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All other correctly completed and returned entries will receive House Points.<br />Entries close on Thursday 15<sup>th</sup> December at 3pm.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Good Luck!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/6IqblM3DjnQ" width="600" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Festive-Fun-Competition-Entry-Form
Mon, 28 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMTOnline Safeguarding Alert
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<h1 class="HTXT">Online Safeguarding Alert</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There is an app called 'Dumbsmash' which is video messaging app where people can upload themselves singing over famous songs and then choose to share via whatsapp, facebook, instagram or via a text message. It is not intended for children under 18 and you must be 18 or 13 years or older with parents permission to use it.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dumbsmash 2 has nothing to do with Dumbsmash but is a malware app that hides itself on phones and then pushes users to adult sites. As soon as it is set up, the icon deletes itself and runs in the background without the users knowledge.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Online-Safeguarding-Alert
Mon, 28 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMTParents Meeting for Iceland Trip
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<h1 class="HTXT">Parents Meeting for Iceland Trip</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There will be a parents meeting for the Iceland trip on Wednesday 30th November. It will start slightly earlier than on the original letter at 5:15pm in the great hall.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Parents-Meeting-for-Iceland-Trip
Thu, 24 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMTWarwick Castle Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:58:00 GMTAbseiling For Peru
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<h1 class="HTXT">Abseiling For Peru</h1>
<p>On Saturday 5th of November, 3 of the pupils currently fundraising for the 2017 Peru expedition, met up with pupils from Ormiston Forge to take part in a sponsored abseil.</p>
<p>They encountered freezing winds, spectacular scenery and conquered great heights! It was also an opportunity to work on their physical fitness in preparation for their 5 day trek through the Andes next summer.</p>
<p>They completed this feet of bravery and endurance at Trevor Quarry Rocks near Llangollen. A great time was had by all and new friendships made. We now can't wait for the expedition to start!</p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Copy_of_P1020968.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Copy_of_P1020966.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Copy_of_P1020964.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Abseiling-For-Peru
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMTOSCA welcomes its new first Aider
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA welcomes its new first Aider</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This week we have welcomed our new, full time and permanent First Aider, Mr Chris King, to Team OSCA.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mr King brings with him a wealth of first aid experience having worked with the St John&rsquo;s Ambulance, community projects and schools over the last 14 years to offer front line first aid as well as delivering and assessing First Aid training to both children and adults.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Chris&rsquo;s appointment at OSCA not only means we have full emergency cover for any accidents that may happen during the day, but also increases our capacity to support any student with minor ailments to ensure they still benefit from the exciting learning and opportunities given to all students.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mr King is here to help every student, so please do so when required.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Remember, every student&rsquo;s target for attendance is 100%, and we expect you to attend every day, so don&rsquo;t let minor ailments get in your way!</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Chris_King.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="400" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-welcomes-its-new-first-Aider
Thu, 03 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMTNo Trick or Treats/halloween_card.pdf
Mon, 31 Oct 2016 10:52:00 GMTBags Of Help
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Bags Of Help</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tesco has teamed up with Groundwork on its Bags of Help initiative in hundreds of regions across England and Wales. The scheme will see three community groups and projects in each of these regions awarded grants of &pound;12,000, &pound;10,000 and &pound;8,000 &ndash; all raised from the 5p bag charge.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Bags of Help offers community groups and projects in each of Tesco&rsquo;s 416 regions across the UK a share of revenue generated from the 5p charge levied on single-use carrier bags. The public will now vote in store from 31<sup>st</sup> October &ndash; 13<sup>th</sup> November on who should receive the &pound;12,000, &pound;10,000 and &pound;8,000 awards. In total, there is over &pound;12.5 million up for grabs.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Follow the link bellow to find out more:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tesco.com/carrier-bags/">www.tesco.com/bagsofhelp</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.tesco.com/bagsofhelp" target="_blank" title="BagsOfHelp"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Tesco.png" alt="" width="165" height="43" /></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><a href="http://www.groundwork.org.uk/Sites/tescocommunityscheme" target="_blank" title="Groundwork"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Ground_Work.jpg" alt="" width="55" height="63" /></span></a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="http://www.beattiegroup.com/workplus/press-releases/tesco-shoppers-set-for-bags-of-help-vote/" target="_blank" title="Beattie"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/beattie.png" alt="" width="125" height="74" /></a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Bags-Of-Help
Mon, 31 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Autumn 2016
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Autumn 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please see below the link for our half termly newsletter, with just a flavour of some of the great things that have happened so far since the summer break.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I also wanted to update you on events and progress at OSCA as this half term draws to a close.&nbsp; And what an enjoyable half term it&rsquo;s been!&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We started the term off in style, celebrating our highest ever GCSE results, with another record breaking percentage of the elite A*/A grades achieved too- 17%, just under a fifth, of all grades awarded were the top ones! We also found out last week from the Department for Education, that under the new provisional Progress 8 Measure, OSCA is now the <u>second highest performing school in the whole of Sandwell</u>! Although this new measure is quite complex to explain, essentially the DfE look at outcomes for every student in every subject across the country, and calculate a progress score based on prior attainment at Key Stage 2. So, in lay terms, OSCA students achieved more than students in every other Sandwell school apart from one. This is fantastic news for our students and for our academy, as this is now one of THE most important performance measures nationally. It is yet more proof of how far we have come in the last few years, and I am very proud of, and delighted for, our students and staff.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In true OSCA spirit though, we are not complacent, and have continued to raise the bar and our expectations of students again this year. &nbsp;&nbsp;We were <u>the highest performing school</u> on attendance in the whole of Sandwell last year for the third consecutive year, and one of the highest performing in the whole country!&nbsp; The links between our outstanding attendance and achieving our best ever results are clear to see.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have set even higher targets for achievement and attendance this year though, and again I would like to thank parents and families for all your support on this.&nbsp; Every year, when we do an analysis of results, we find the highest achievers are also the highest attenders. So, being here every day, on time, well equipped, smartly dressed and ready to learn, really does pay off in terms of success.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside all the hard graft, we have managed to have a bit of fun and some adventures too - please see the attached newsletter for just some of the great things that have happened this half term, as well as some key dates.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/October_2016_newsletter.pdf" target="_blank" title="Newsletter - October 2016">Newsletter - October 2016</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In other news, OSCA&rsquo;s popularity continues to grow in the community.&nbsp; As you may know we are full and oversubscribed in years 7,8 and 9, with a waiting list for places, for the third consecutive year.&nbsp; With a half term under their belt now, the year 7 are shaping up to be our brightest, biggest, and best year group ever!&nbsp; Furthermore, we hosted an exceptionally popular open evening in September for year 6 students and their families.&nbsp; Attendance was fantastic- our highest ever number of families came to visit, with over 500 people here on the night.&nbsp; Some of their comments included:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">'An absolutely amazing school.'</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">'A school with an imaginative approach to learning.'</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">'Teachers are approachable and students well mannered.'</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">'There is a real partnership between parents, students and staff.'</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">'A forward thinking, creative environment.'</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It is fair to say therefore that competition for places is likely to continue to be fierce again in 2017!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, some fantastic news about our site. The Local Authority have agreed to invest &pound;2.6 million to refurbish C block! Agreement was reached a few weeks ago, and work starts immediately after half term. As C block is a standalone building, we are pleased to say that this will have minimum impact on the rest of the site, as the area will be ring fenced. We are all very excited to see this block being brought up to the excellent standard of the rest of our facilities, and can&rsquo;t wait to launch it in time for next September.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So,&nbsp;a big thank you from me once again for all your support this half term, and best wishes for a happy and enjoyable half term week.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Autumn-2016
Thu, 20 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - October 2016/docs/October_2016_newsletter.pdf
Thu, 20 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMTMuch Ado About Nothing
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Much Ado About Nothing</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA's Year 10 BTEC Drama Students star in an original romantic comedy:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Much Ado About Nothing</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Monday 31st October 2016 7-10pm</span></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Old Rep Theatre</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Station Street</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Birmingham</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> B5 4DY</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Book Tickets 0121 359 9444</span></p>
<p><img title="MuchAdo" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Untitled-1.jpg" alt="MuchAdo" width="600" height="780" /></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Much-Ado-About-Nothing
Wed, 19 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMTChristmas Card Competition
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Christmas Card Competition</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT) invites you to enter its Annual Christmas Card Competition. The winning design will feature on OAT's official Christmas card, so your design could be seen across the UK and wider!</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br />The winner will receive art supplies to the value of &pound;30, &pound;50 iTunes voucher, &pound;100 donated to your favourite charity and copies of the cards. Anyone who is a student at an Ormiston academy can enter the competition, just read the rules first. </span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="Christmas Card Competition" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Christmas_card_comp_poster_2016_PRINT2.jpg" alt="Christmas Card Competition" width="600" height="851" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Christmas-Card-Competition
Mon, 17 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMTGirls Football
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Girls Football</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Girls Football will be running on Fridays 1:30pm - 2:30pm on the AstroTurf.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> All girls are welcome and starts on Friday 14th October.&nbsp; The club will be delivered by an DA qualified coach.</span></p>
<p><img title="Girls Football" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Girls_Football.jpg" alt="Girls Football" width="600" height="386" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Girls-Football
Fri, 07 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMTConkers Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 06 Oct 2016 10:18:00 GMTEnrichment Newsletter/EnrichmentNewsletter_Sept.pdf
Tue, 04 Oct 2016 08:00:00 GMTCollege and Sixth Form Open Days/College_and_Sixth_Form_Open_Days_2016_-_2017.pdf
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 08:22:00 GMTYear 11 - Stepping Up/Stepping_Up_2016__FINAL.pdf
Fri, 23 Sep 2016 14:26:00 GMTStudy Support Timetable/Study_Support_Timetable_2015.pdf
Fri, 23 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Road Safety
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Road Safety</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am writing to you to ask for your support in speaking to your son/daughter about the following issue. We have, over the last few days, had several concerns raised by parents and passers- by about extremely unsafe behaviour, both on the main New Birmingham Road and other neighbouring roads, as our students have been travelling to and from the Academy. In fact, it was reported that two girls were almost run over last night due to not paying attention crossing the road.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In response to this, and in an attempt to ensure the safety of our students, senior members of staff have been monitoring the situation and offering support and guidance. Unfortunately, a small number of students have not carried out their instructions, making the situation even more difficult. Clearly, we are not trained in road crossing, and are only seeking to help. Ultimately, students must take responsibility for their own safety, hence us asking you to reiterate its importance.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As I am sure you will agree the prospect of any one of our students being seriously injured or worse due to failure to follow simple road safety rules, or the advice of staff, is the last thing anyone of us want. So may I please request that you reinforce the message that has been shared with all our students today and in assemblies. That is, when crossing the road, they should be sensible, aware of the traffic, and cross safely obeying traffic and crossing signals.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I would also like to draw your attention to the behaviour policy on our website that clearly states, &lsquo;Students are ambassadors of our academy even when off academy premises and we expect them to act accordingly.&rsquo; This includes obeying academy rules and listening to and following instructions given by staff when travelling to or from the academy, or near the academy premises.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Many thanks as always for your ongoing support in this matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Kind regards</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Gaynor Garner</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Senior Leader Pastoral and Transition&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">gaynor.garner@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Letter-to-Parents-Road-Safety
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMTTarget Setting Day
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Target Setting Day</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial; color: #2b2e2f;">On Monday 10th October we have our annual Y7 - Y11 Target Setting Day. Student's and their parent(s) will meet with the Tutor and review progress from last year and set targets for the year ahead. Attendance is compulsory and students are required to wear their uniform. Student's are required to attend ONLY for the appointment. Letter and return slip to follow.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Target-Setting-Day
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMTYamaha Class Band at OSCA
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Yamaha Class Band at OSCA</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A short film about how the Yamaha Class Band project is benefiting students at OSCA, with support from SIPS Education Music and Arts Service.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/12RHfV62WSQ?wmode=opaque&amp;theme=dark" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Yamaha-Class-Band-at-OSCA
Wed, 21 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMTProm 2016 Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 15 Sep 2016 10:50:00 GMTReturn to School Arrangements
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Return to School Arrangements</h1>
<div class="comment">
<div class="zd-comment">
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Return to school arrangements for Wednesday 7th September:</strong></span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">New year 7 students arrive for 8.35am and enter via the front entrance. Students assemble in the Great Hall.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 11 Students arrive for 8.35am and go to the Downstairs O Block. Class lists have been emailed out and will also be on display for which room to go to.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 12 students arrive for 9am and enter via the front entrance. Please meet in the Teacher lab.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>On Thursday 8th September</strong> all students should arrive for 8.35am and go directly to their tutor rooms.</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Return-to-School-Arrangements
Mon, 05 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Achieve best ever GCSE Results!
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Achieve best ever GCSE Results!</h1>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students and staff at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy (OSCA), Tividale, are celebrating after achieving the academy&rsquo;s best ever GCSE results.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A record 55% of students achieved A*- C grades in English and Maths, and the academy enjoyed a huge increase in the number of students achieving the top A* and A grades with over 33% of all results one of these top grades.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy is delighted that so many of its students will be able to take up their chosen post 16 pathways and continue to flourish.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA, which is rated &lsquo;Good&rsquo; by Ofsted, has yet more to celebrate with the continuing trend of year on year improvement and moving up the performance tables.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There were some truly outstanding individual success stories this year, including:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Adam Foster who achieved 6 A*s and 3 As</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Liam Ashcroft who gained 6A*s, 1A and 2 Bs</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Joseph Boucher who achieved 5A*s and 4 As</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Sabah Akhtar who achieved 5 A*s, 3 As and 1 B</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The highest attaining students at OSCA accrued a whopping 117 A*-A grades between them.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA is also particularly proud of the phenomenal results of some of our overseas students who joined the academy over the last two years and for whom English is their second language. Some stand out achievements include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Julia Kurzydym who achieved 4 A*s, 1 A and 5 Bs</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Maria Viegas who achieved 2 A*s 5As and 4Bs</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Victoria Olewale who achieved 2A*s, 2As and 1 B</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Staff and Governors at the Academy prepared a full Olympics style medal ceremony including a winner&rsquo;s podium to celebrate the academy&rsquo;s success in style as students arrived to receive their results.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Marie McMahon, Principal at OSCA, said: </strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>&ldquo;Once again, I am so proud and pleased of everything that our students have achieved. Our best ever GCSE results, on top of our best ever A level results last week is absolutely fantastic. </em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><em>&ldquo;We really stress the importance of &lsquo;striving for excellence&rsquo; in all that we do at OSCA, and, just like Team GB, this has paid off for Team OSCA. A massive thank you to all our parents, governors and staff, and a huge &lsquo;well done&rsquo; to our fantastic students for all they have achieved. Outstanding, here we come!&rsquo;</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><em>Toby Salt, CEO of Ormiston Academies Trust, said:</em></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong><em>&nbsp;</em></strong></span><em><span style="font-family: arial;">"It is our absolute priority to ensure that every student fulfils their potential, no matter what their background, and we are delighted to see a further rise in GCSE results at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy. Students, staff and parents deserve great credit for these results which reflect their commitment and determination to succeed and we look forward to building on these achievements year after year.</span> </em></span></p>
<p><em><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Liam__Joe__Adam_Jordan.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="442" /></em></p>
<p><em><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/MAria_Julia.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="349" /></em></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Achieve-best-ever-GCSE-Results
Tue, 30 Aug 2016 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - July 2016/July_2016_newsletter.pdf
Wed, 20 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - July 2016
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - July 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we approach the end of another busy term, I just wanted to give you a few updates, and confirm the end of term arrangements.&nbsp; And what a term it&rsquo;s been! &nbsp;Some highlights for me have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our OSCA Awards Ceremony last week, attended by approximately 400 guests and proud parents and guardians. We gave out 150 awards, all for outstanding effort and achievement.&nbsp; It was particularly impressive to see our &lsquo;Brilliant Club&rsquo; Graduates in full university gowns and mortar boards, already producing university level assignments</span></li>
<li style="padding-left: 30px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are the top performing school in the whole borough again this year for attendance, for the 3rd consecutive year, and one of THE top performing nationally. This matters so much given the proven link between high attendance and high achievement in exams</span></li>
<li style="padding-left: 30px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our learning environment is superb now too, with the completion of our &pound;9 m rebuild and refurb programme last year. I have recently secured significant funding from the Local Authority for a complete refurb of C block (which was not originally scheduled on the build plan), so watch this space for more details!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are once again full and oversubscribed for the 3<sup>rd</sup> consecutive year, we have a long&nbsp;waiting list, and once again had to attend the appeals panel last week as some pupils who didn&rsquo;t get into OSCA were so disappointed, they appealed again to come here and not to the school they had been allocated!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside of all that hard work, we have had a myriad of enrichment opportunities. Please do click <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/July_2016_newsletter.pdf" target="_blank" title="Newsletter - July 2016">here</a> to check out our latest newsletter, for a flavour of some of these.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, immensely proud though I am of everything we have achieved together over the last 3 years, it doesn&rsquo;t stop there! &nbsp;&nbsp;We have very firmly set our sights on &lsquo;outstanding&rsquo;.&nbsp; Our new Academy Development Plan has been written, and we will leave no stone unturned in our quest to keep raising standards across the board.&nbsp; Your support in all of this has, of course, been absolutely pivotal, and it has been a real pleasure working in partnership with you again this year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As many parents and guardians will be buying new uniform in preparation for September just a reminder that the uniform list is on the website on the parents' page. &nbsp;We have had excellent support from the overwhelming majority of parents in meeting the enforcement of uniform and ethos rules this year. &nbsp;One thorny issue in this can be the definition of formal shoes. &nbsp;We have therefore on the uniform page of the website&nbsp;provided examples of what the Academy means by these, and to help parents avoid spending money on shoes which are not suitable. Lots of sports shops are branding items as shoes that aren&rsquo;t actually shoes (and charging huge amounts in the process!), so please do check on the website. Please can I also reiterate that trousers must be formal too, no leggings/jeggings/very tight styles either please. As I always say, uniform is the physical manifestation of a student's attitude to school, so thank you in advance for working with us to ensure they get it right. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I understand that the summer holidays is a time to relax and perhaps for parents to allow our young people to have a bit more freedom as teenagers. Please can I ask however that any summer piercings/extreme hair colourings are removed by the start of term in September. &nbsp;Again, please&nbsp;visit our website if you have any queries about expectations, or contact your child's Head of House. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The website also has all the information you need about our new supplier, as well as a link to the finance department if you have any queries. The remaining selling dates at OSCA for your convenience are:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Wednesday 3rd August - 3pm to 6pm<br />Thursday 4th August - 3pm to 6pm</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In terms of practical arrangements, the academy will finish for students at:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>12:00pm on Friday 22<sup>nd</sup> July</strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>OSCA re-opens for years 7, 11 and 12 on Wednesday 7<sup>th</sup> September at 8.35am</strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>OSCA re-opens for all other year groups on Thursday 8<sup>th</sup> September at 8.35am </strong></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For all other key dates next term please see the newsletter, and the draft calendar on the website <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/OSCA_calendar_2016_-17.pdf" title="OSCA Calendar 2016/17">here</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As a reward for students for such a successful term, Friday 22<sup>nd</sup> will be a non-uniform day. Students should bring in &pound;1 for a charitable donation. Please can I ask you that students do still wear clothes suitable for a school setting. I appreciate we (finally!), have some warm weather, but nothing too short or too revealing please, or students risk being sent home to change, which would be a shame.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On a staffing note, I wanted to let you know that Mrs Thompson, one of our VPs, is retiring this year, after 6 years at OSCA, and<strong><u> 39</u></strong> years as a teacher in the West Midlands. I am sure you will want to join me in thanking her for all she has done for the academy, and for students over the last nearly 40 years, and in wishing her a very long, and very happy retirement!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, thank you once again for all of your support this academic year.&nbsp; Our thoughts now lie with years 11 and 13, and we are hoping and praying that this summer will bring our best ever set of exam results, so watch this space! &nbsp;I am so proud and pleased of everything we have achieved together this year, and look forward to celebrating even greater successes in the new academic year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes for a happy (and sunny!) summer holiday,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-July-2016
Wed, 20 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Sports Day Medalists
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Sports Day Medalists</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Untitled-5.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="424" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Untitled-6.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="424" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Medal_Winners_15_2016-4.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="424" /><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Medal_Winners_15_2016-5.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="424" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Sports-Day-Medalists
Wed, 20 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTL4S Day - July 2016
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<h1 class="HTXT">L4S Day - July 2016</h1>
<p><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Friday 15th July OSCA students were involved in the last calendared L4S day. These days are &nbsp;important to ensure that students receive PSHE lessons that are catered for their age and stage&nbsp;within their&nbsp;school life. A great day had by all with our external visitors being very impressed with the work ethic and conduct that our students displayed during the day. Year group focus:</span></p>
<p><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 7 - Students raising their awareness of our natural environment and the importance of being eco friendly. Looking at how changes in our climate are effecting our British wildlife and ways in which we could encourage more wildlife into our gardens.These workshops were accompanied by the annual visit by the animal man, where students get up close and personal with a variety of insects, reptiles and other animals.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 8 - Math's &amp; ICT enterprise challenge was introduced to our year 8 students. They had to design and create an educational numeracy games geared towards students in year 6. Some of the ideas are the day were amazing and could have been marketable.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 9 - A day that focused on Respect. Students work on a rotational basis moving around to different lessons workshops. Respecting others, self respect and safety/risks were all main topics of the day. Our year 9 students had the chance to work with our local Policeman Hughie Treasure who came into the Academy to talk about Knife Crime, the risks and making the right decisions.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 10 - Readiness for work experience this week. On Friday our year 10 students really got to grips with transferable skills that are important in any working environment. Communication etiquette, writing that winning CV, skills and how to use them proactively and a workshop geared around apprenticeships and traineeships so our students are more aware of what is out there when they leave. Employer engagement was also a key strand to the day, our students were joined by&nbsp;representatives from the RAF to discuss their job roles and skills required for them to do their jobs.</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/L4S-Day-July-2016
Tue, 19 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTFrench Ambassador Trip
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<h1 class="HTXT">French Ambassador Trip</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Monday 18th July, OSCA's MFL Team took twenty one of their French ambassadors to experience a three course meal in a French restaurant. They were all superbly behaved, all enjoyed their food at the French Hen and we were even treated to dessert in the garden.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/French-Ambassador-Trip
Tue, 19 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTLetter - New Homework System - Sept 2016
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<h1 class="HTXT">Letter - New Homework System - Sept 2016</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/ Carer,</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Over the last few years we have tried several ways to improve the quality of homework set and completed, and also the way it is recorded and communicated with yourselves. Although feedback tells us this has improved, we are aware we still need to get better at this. Therefore, from September 2016 we are launching a new homework system for all students to help them become more independent learners, by allowing them to manage their time and resources themselves.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">From next year students will no longer be issued with planners, as students have told us they don&rsquo;t find them helpful. Instead they will receive an individual homework book for each of their subjects. Students will be responsible for bringing these books home on set days, completing their home work to a high standard, and returning them to their class teacher on an agreed day. We have asked class teachers to ensure that homework task are recorded clearly in the books, or that homework grids, similar to those used at primary schools, are stuck into the books.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have in turn asked class teachers to ensure that homework is challenging and purposeful, and either reinforces and consolidates work from the classroom, or prepares students for new learning. We will also continue to distribute homework timetables to help students and yourselves to manage their independent learning. We will also continue to log all homework on the Parental Portal so that you can access a live calendar of homework&rsquo;s set. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Parents will be encouraged to continue their role in monitoring their child&rsquo;s completion of homework. We ask you to ensure homework is completed on time and apply rewards and sanctions at home accordingly. We will notify you via text when homework has not been completed. However, we will also ensure that students who are completing their work at home are more consistently rewarded. Homework books and timetables will be sent home at the start of the new academic term in September.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We do welcome any feedback on this new system. This can either be communicated via your child&rsquo;s form tutor or head of house, or please do contact me directly if you so wish.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mr Myk Wagstaff<br />Assistant Principal</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="mailto:myk.wagstaff@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">myk.wagstaff@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-New-Homework-System-Sept-2016
Thu, 14 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTLetter - Year 11 Tutor Groups
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<h1 class="HTXT">Letter - Year 11 Tutor Groups</h1>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>New Year 11 Tutor Group Arrangements &ndash; September 2016</strong> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/ Carer,</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you will be aware, your child is about to embark upon one of the most important years of their education so far. It is the year when all external exams will be sat and every lesson and every intervention we make during this year will lead towards them. It is also a year of real pressure for our young people and we are constantly seeking ways to help them manage this pressure. our aim is to continue to work closely with parents and carers to together support and guide them to the best they can achieve.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Over the last 6 years OSCA has placed students into our very successful Vertical tutoring system. However, increasingly over the last few years our year 11 students have been withdrawn from L4S and tutor groups to participate in additional interventions. This has meant that year 11 students have at times faced disruption to their timetable in their most stressful year. To alleviate this stress, and to allow all year 11 students to access appropriate interventions and maximise the use of curriculum time, we have made the decision to create new year 11 exclusive tutor groups. Each of these groups will have one of our senior leaders or lead practitioners as their personal tutors. These experienced members of staff teach across the Core and Ebacc subjects and will be able to provide students with personalised support. Each student has been placed in a tutor group based on the latest progress data available and linked to a subject in which they currently need to improve. This will of course will be reviewed and adapted throughout the year to ensure our interventions remain purposeful for all involved. Whilst we understand that leaving their current tutor may cause some upset for a handful of students we hope you will understand our rationale and support us in moving to this new system which will offer more support to your child.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students will remain members of their current house groups, and any pastoral issues or questions should still go via your child&rsquo;s current house team, who will remain as your first point of contact, so the excellent level of pastoral support they have always enjoyed will remain the same, but with enhanced academic support from a bespoke team of tutors.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 11 students will also continue to access our L4S programme, which can now be made more relevant to the needs of year 11 focusing on study skills, careers guidance and planning for the future. Year 11 will also continue to have L4S Days to support their personal development.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you have any questions or queries regarding the above, or would like to know more about the new tutor group system please do not hesitate to contact us via the academy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We look forward to working with you next academic year to ensure all of our year 11 students achieve their very best. <br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mr Andy Morgan&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Mr Myk Wagstaff</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Senior Vice Principal &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Assistant Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-Year-11-Tutor-Groups
Wed, 13 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTAdvance confirmation for parents
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<h1 class="HTXT">Advance confirmation for parents</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Advance confirmation for parents:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy will finish for students at 12pm on Friday 22nd July.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Advance-confirmation-for-parents
Fri, 08 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTSomme Centenary Celebrations
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<h1 class="HTXT">Somme Centenary Celebrations</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">"At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them."</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA will today join in with schools across the country in marking the Centenary Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme. 100 years ago today a total of 19,240 British soldiers lost their lives in just one days fighting as part of what was known as The Great War.</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The following poem was written by OSCA pupil Alex to remember all those who fought in the 'Great War':</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For those who lay.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In Flanders fields where the poppies grow,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In the bleak mid winter there filled with snow</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The crosses lay upon the hill,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">People stops and stare at a standstill</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Men that fight live in fear,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As they look back at friends and shed a tear</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Death leaves heartache that no human can heal,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">However love leaves memories that no man can steal</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Poppies are important as they have meaning,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For the sweet families that are grieving</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The petals are red and the centre is black,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All people want is there fellow men back</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">STOP for a moment, stop the crime,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please give up just two minutes of your time</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Why oh why do we fight each other,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">for now the living have to suffer</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For this poem came from the heart,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Just grabbed a pencil and began to start</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Soldiers young, soldiers old,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Stood up tall, brave and bold</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Rest in peace to those who died,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Lay in Flanders filled with pride.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We will not forget.</span></p>
<p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="auto"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/IMG_3719.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="808" /></p>
<p dir="auto"><em><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The <strong>Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme</strong> is a war memorial to 72,246<sup>&nbsp;</sup> missing British Empire servicemen, who died in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Somme" title="Battle of the Somme">Battles of the Somme</a> of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I" title="World War I">First World War</a> between 1915 and 1918, with no known grave. It is near the village of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiepval" title="Thiepval">Thiepval</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Picardy" title="Picardy">Picardy</a> in France.</span></em></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Somme-Centenary-Celebrations
Fri, 01 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMTGung-Ho Obstacle
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<h1 class="HTXT">Gung-Ho Obstacle</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In the summer of 2017, 5 of our current year 10 students will travel with Ms Madeley and CAMPS</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">International to Peru. Although this is an amazing opportunity, it comes at an amazing cost. The individual students have been busy raising funds through individual and team efforts. Two teams of teachers have decided to lace up their trainers to raise money for these pupils, choosing to run in a 5km obstacle race or a 21km local half marathon. All proceeds go to the students to get them to Peru.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">You can sponsor the students trip by using the link below. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="https://www.gofundme.com/wmw98bgk">https://www.gofundme.com/wmw98bgk</a> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="Gungho1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Gung-ho_running.jpg" alt="Gungho1" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Gung-ho_finish.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Gung-ho_Obstacle_3.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="PERU" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/15__peru_expedition_poster.jpg" alt="PERU" width="600" height="403" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Gung-Ho-Obstacle
Thu, 30 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTWomen's Summit
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<h1 class="HTXT">Women's Summit</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">Seventeen girls selected from the Gifted and Talented programme across Years 8,9 and 10,&nbsp;travelled to Wales, to the Forge Mountain Centre, for a residential experience (20th June- 22nd June). Here they participated in OSCA's first every Women's Summit. They contemplated their position within the global society, studying and discussing matters of equality, whilst also discovering who they aspire to be. They pushed their own comfort levels through a series of adventurous activities: canoeing, horse riding, photography, and canvas painting - redefining themselves in each landscape.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Womens_Summit_1.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="800" /></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Womens_Summit_2.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="800" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Women-s-Summit
Thu, 30 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTDuke of Edinburgh
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Duke of Edinburgh</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thirty-nine Year 10 students invaded Kinver on May 7th and 8th during a preparatory camping trip. The trip was in preparation for their Duke of Edinburgh Practice Expedition. The students walked in teams of 14 with supporting staff members up to peaks and across the fields, hiking for 10 hours over the two days. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">At camp, pupils worked in teams of two and three to practice their camping craft - setting up their tents, cooking creative meals for their tea and supper. During the night they took shelter for a brief (yet torrential) downpour, enjoyed a campfire and built on their sense of community and teamwork. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This camping trip allowed them the environment needed to hone their camp craft, orienteering and cooperative communication skills. Only a short 3 weeks later, the group traversed the Clent and Lickie Hills. This time in proper DofE regulated grouping - with no more than 7 members to a team and a gradual release to remote supervision. Once again, the group was favoured by the weather gods and graced with exceptional sunshine - again with the exception of gale force winds in the heart of the night (a true testament to their camping abilities, as all tents were still standing securely come morning). </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All participants have successfully completed their Practice Expedition component of their Bronze award and are ready and waiting for their final assessed expedition in September.</span></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Practice_Expedition.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="800" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Duke-of-Edinburgh
Thu, 30 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Votes!http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 24 Jun 2016 11:34:00 GMTThe science visit to RAF Cosfordhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 24 Jun 2016 11:20:00 GMTOSCA EU Referendum
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA EU Referendum</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tomorrow pupils will be using their democratic skills to vote whether we should stay in the EU or leave. Their results will be compared to the national picture.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Results of the OSCA referendum will be shared with all students on the Friday 24th June in L4S.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We hope that all students get involved in our healthy debate, whilst understanding the role of democracy in the UK as one of our fundamental British values.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;<img title="Referendum" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Ref.jpg" alt="Referendum" width="600" height="375" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-EU-Referendum
Wed, 22 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTSummer Sports Clubs
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<h1 class="HTXT">Summer Sports Clubs</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/OSCASports2016.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="375" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Summer-Sports-Clubs
Wed, 15 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTNew OSCA Menu and Price List
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">New OSCA Menu and Price List</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">From Monday 20th June we are launching some new menu items on the Main Counter at Breakfast, Break And Lunch called &ldquo; Tub Be Good To Me &ldquo; Click on the link below to see the Menu and Price list.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/OSCA_Menu_Main_Counter_Tub_Be_Good_Price_List.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tub Be Good To Me Menu and Price List">Tub Be Good To Me Menu and Price List</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/New-OSCA-Menu-and-Price-List
Wed, 15 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTThe PAPA Summer Sizzler
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<h1 class="HTXT">The PAPA Summer Sizzler</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The PAPA Summer Sizzler</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Want to perform? Sign up in the Drama Studio from Monday 13th June.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">11th - 14th July Lunchtimes. OUTDOOR STAGE (WEATHER PERMITTED)</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;<img title="Summer Sizzler" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Summer_Sizzler.jpg" alt="Summer Sizzler" width="600" height="403" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/The-PAPA-Summer-Sizzler
Tue, 14 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 Signing In During Study Leave
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<h1 class="HTXT">Year 11 Signing In During Study Leave</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Now that Year 11 are on study leave and will only attend the academy for exams, exam crams, revision lessons or BTEC lessons, we are introducing the system below to ensure we know who is in and off site at any one time.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 11 students should enter and exit the academy via the main entrance - they will be coming in and out at different times of the day therefore all other entrances will be locked. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">They should go directly through reception to the Foyer area. &nbsp;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On the foyer desk there will be a daily signing in sheet for students to record the time they came on to site, they should also record what time they leave the site. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If they come back onto site later on in the day they should sign in and out again using the additional columns. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students attending for an exam do not need to sign in as a register will be taken in the exam venue. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If a student finishes an exam but wishes to remain on site to attend a lesson etc they should then sign in as above to ensure we know that they are till on site.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-11-Signing-In-During-Study-Leave
Mon, 13 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTOSCA's Boxing Club
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA's Boxing Club</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">OSCA's Boxing Club:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Starts Thursday 16th June 3:15pm - 4:30pm Every Thursday.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">See Miss Pearce for more information.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Open to Year 9 &amp; 10. Boys and Girls Welcome!</span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&pound;1.00 Each Lesson.</span></p>
<p><img title="Boxing Poster" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Boxing_Poster_2016.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="855" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-s-Boxing-Club
Thu, 09 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTNew Breakfast Break and Lunch Items from Monday 20th June
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">New Breakfast Break and Lunch Items from Monday 20th June</h1>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">From Monday 20th June we are launching some new menu items on the Main Counter at Breakfast, Break And Lunch called &ldquo; Tub Be Good To Me &ldquo;</span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We will be giving out a raffle ticket with each New Menu item purchased, and at the end of each day for the first week we will do a draw, one for staff and one for students, the winners will be entitled to a free meal to the value of &pound;2.05 from the new menu. Click on the link below to see the Tub Be Good To Me Presentation.<br /></span></p>
<p dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Tub_Be_Good_To_Me_Presentation.pdf" target="_blank" title="Tub Be Good To Me">Tub Be Good To Me Presentation</a></span></p>
<p dir="auto"><img title="Tub Be Good To Me" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Slide1.jpg" alt="Tub Be Good To Me" width="600" height="338" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/New-Breakfast-Break-and-Lunch-Items-from-Monday-20
Wed, 08 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMTBrilliant Clubhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 26 May 2016 10:34:00 GMTYear 11 Exam Cram Timetable - W/b Monday 6th June/y11_exam_cram_TT_wb_6june.pdf
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:07:00 GMTNewsletter - May 2016/May_2016_newsletter.pdf
Thu, 26 May 2016 08:35:00 GMTExam Season Letter - Study Leave 2016
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Exam Season Letter - Study Leave 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/ Carer,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">You will be aware that the exam season is now in full swing. We are extremely proud of our year 11 cohort, and the mature way that they have conducted their revision and exams so far. To continue to fully support our year 11 students to achieve their very best we have made the following arrangements:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On <strong>Friday 27<sup>th</sup> May</strong> students will be permitted to leave the academy site once the GCSE English Literature exam is finished.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">During Half term the following Revision sessions will be running in school:</span></li>
</ul>
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 97.1pt; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; background: #D9D9D9; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Monday</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; background: #D9D9D9; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Tuesday</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; background: #D9D9D9; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Wednesday</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; background: #D9D9D9; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Thursday</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; background: #D9D9D9; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Friday</strong></span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 97.1pt; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Closed &ndash;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Bank Holiday</span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border-top: none; border-left: none; border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">GCSE Maths</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">9am &ndash; 12pm</span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border-top: none; border-left: none; border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">GCSE History</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">12.30pm-3.30pm</span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border-top: none; border-left: none; border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">GCSE Science</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">9am &ndash; 12pm</span></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 97.15pt; border-top: none; border-left: none; border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">GCSE History</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">9am &ndash; 12pm</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Exam crams and lessons will continue as normal from Monday 6<sup>th</sup></strong> <strong>June </strong>(after half term). An exam cram timetable is available <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/y11_exam_cram_TT_wb_6june.pdf" target="_blank" title="Exam Cram Timetable W/b 6th June">here </a>for your information.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On <strong>Friday 10<sup>th</sup> June</strong> Students will be permitted to leave the academy site once the GCSE Biology exam is finished.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;">
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">From Friday 10<sup>th</sup> June students will commence study leave. They should continue to attend lessons for GCSE subjects until they have sat their final examination in this subject. Following the final exam in a subject students may remain at home to complete private study and revision for remaining exams.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;">
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students following BTEC courses should continue to attend BTEC lessons as normal until their portfolio has been completed and signed off by the subject teacher. Again, after this point students can use the time at home to revise and prepare for remaining exams.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;">
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Students should continue to wear full academy uniform at all times when attending the academy, including examinations. In the past there has been a tradition of students signing shirts as a memento, students wishing to do so should bring in a spare shirt to be signed and not use the one they are wearing. As well as being against academy rules, anyone wearing a shirt with writing on will be barred from exam rooms as per the examboard guidelines.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As ever, we wish our students the very best of luck in this final round of exams and we look forward to celebrating their hard work at the leaver&rsquo;s assembly, Prom and most of all on results day in August. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank parents for your continued support at home with revision and exam preparation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial; color: windowtext; font-size: 10pt;">Mr Myk Wagstaff</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Exam-Season-Letter-Study-Leave-2016
Thu, 26 May 2016 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - May Half Term 2016
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - May Half Term 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I write to you at the end of another long, busy and very successful term, with a few highlights and a few reminders.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The main focus of this term, of course, has been the push towards ensuring exam success for years 11 and 13 in the summer exams.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have had lots of conversations with students this week, and explained the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and using their revision time effectively. OSCA staff are providing a range of revision sessions during the May half term and we have also organised &lsquo;exam cram&rsquo; sessions on the day of exams, for those last minute reminders, tips and final points of revision.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Details of examinations and revision sessions are available on our website if you are unsure.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Whilst exams are a key focus for staff and students at OSCA at this time of year; there are many other events and activities which highlight the hard work and commitment to excellence we promote every day. Please click on the link below for our half termly newsletter:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/May_2016_newsletter.pdf" target="_blank" title="Newsletter - May 2016">Newsletter - May 2016</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As you can see, it&rsquo;s been as busy as ever! A few highlights for me have included:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">40 students, our biggest cohort ever, have recently taken part in a camping trip in preparation for their Duke of Edinburgh expedition. These students demonstrated determination, commitment and resilience whilst camping and hiking in Kinver, key qualities for success in the future.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have also had several visits to Universities of late. Year 7 students took part in a Chemistry event held at the University of Birmingham while year 10 explored &lsquo;imaginary numbers&rsquo; on a trip to Warwick University.&nbsp; These kinds of learning experiences have a fantastic impact on the engagement of students and open up possibilities for their own future learning and careers.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have also achieved a range of sporting accolades this past half term. Our Year 10 Football team won their semi-final game against Perryfields in the Sandwell Cup. We wish them every success in the final. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">To give just one example of sporting personal achievement, Ethan Court in year 7 also achieved one gold medal and two silver medals in his athletic competition held at Alexander Stadium. All our sporting teams and individuals have demonstrated excellent team work and commitment and have represented themselves and OSCA impeccably. &nbsp;I would encourage all students to partake in the wide range of after school and Friday afternoon activities we offer.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am very proud of all the hard work and commitment demonstrated by the staff and students at OSCA and also immensely grateful for the support you provide, which is key to ensuring happy and successful students.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In terms of upcoming events, here are a few key dates for your diary:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yr 9 and 10 exam week starts &ndash; <strong>&nbsp;27<sup>th</sup> June</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 9 Parents Evening &ndash; <strong>28<sup>th</sup> June</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 11 Leavers Assembly &ndash;&nbsp;&nbsp; <strong>29<sup>th</sup> June</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 7 Induction day and evening &ndash; <strong>5<sup>th</sup> July</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Training days &ndash; <strong>7<sup>th</sup>/8<sup>th</sup> July</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 10 Work Experience week &ndash; <strong>18<sup>th</sup> July</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Summer Term ends &ndash;&nbsp; <strong>22<sup>nd</sup> July</strong></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully<br />Marie McMahon<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-May-Half-Term-2016
Thu, 26 May 2016 00:00:00 GMTPSHE Sessionshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 20 May 2016 09:52:00 GMTSex and Relationship Education
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Sex and Relationship Education</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Sex and Relationship Education &amp; Body Image is an important part of the PSHE curriculum and on Thursday 19th May all of our year 9 students will be working with Brook Nurses in a one-hour work shop titled: Body Image (including Female Gentile Mutilation &amp; Circumcision) The learning outcomes for this session are:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Outcomes:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Learners will be able to discuss what influences their perception of the perfect body </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Learners will be able to define what society judges to be the perfect body &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Learners will be able to appraise the pressures which young people experience in relation to body image and create strategies to overcome them.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">This is a great opportunity to work with leading professionals on such topics where our students can explore concepts of their changing bodies. For further information or questions do not hesitate to contact Mrs Laird at OSCA or Natalie Cox via email:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="mailto:Natalie.cox@brook.org.uk">Natalie.cox@brook.org.uk</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sex-and-Relationship-Education
Mon, 16 May 2016 00:00:00 GMTSenior Prefect Team Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 13 May 2016 11:47:00 GMTSenior Prefect Team 2016/17
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Senior Prefect Team 2016/17</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are very pleased and proud to announced the Senior Prefect Team for 2016/17.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Head Girl</strong> : Blessing </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong> Head Boy</strong>: Callum</span></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">With the growing size of OSCA, and the very high calibre of applicants for our senior roles we have decided to appoint four deputies for this academic year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Deputy Head Girls</strong>: Reyna &amp; Charlotte </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong> Deputy Head boys</strong>: Jack &amp; Nicolas</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Senior Prefects</strong>: </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Charlotte </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Gemma </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Jessica </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Samuel </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Owen </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Baron</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSC_0372_3.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="425" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The decision this year has been harder than ever with so many fantastic applicants who performed brilliantly during the selection process. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Please congratulate these students when you see them, and thank you to Mr Ahmed for arranging the selection process. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Next Year&rsquo;s senior prefect team will be working alongside our current team over the next few weeks to ensure a smooth handover, and to look at any changes they would like to make for September.</span></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Senior-Prefect-Team-2016-17
Fri, 13 May 2016 00:00:00 GMTExam Season Letter - May 2016
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Exam Season Letter - May 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Dear Parent/ Carer,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">You will be aware that the exam season is now in full swing. We are extremely proud of our year 11 cohort, and the mature way that they have conducted their revision and exams so far. I am writing to you today to explain the examination leave arrangements for Year 11.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">As you will be aware from your child and through meetings with their teachers, the GCSE examinations over recent years have become more challenging both in their content and in the changing grade boundaries that have risen. This means students have to perform even better in exams to reach their expected grades than in previous years.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">In order to help your child to reach their potential OSCA has changing its approach to the traditional study leave. Students will remain in school until the bulk of their exams are completed (date to be confirmed).</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">During this time we will of course offer the highest support to our students, and ensure lesson time is focussed on revision and study for each exam. Once exams are completed in a particular subject we will use the lesson time to focus on other subjects. So for example, now that English language exams are completed students will use English lesson time to prepare for English Literature exams later in the month. We will also be providing quiet study spaces for students before exams, and some timings of the day will become more flexible to allow students to prepare fully.</span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;">
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">We will continue to hold extra revision sessions &lsquo;Exam Crams&rsquo; before each exam. These take place at 8.15am before morning exams, and 12.20pm before afternoon exams. There are links below with details of the next two weeks of exams alongside details of Exam Crams to help with planning.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">We are also providing all year 11 students who have a morning exam with a free breakfast from the dining area from 7.50am onwards.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Students should continue to wear full academy uniform at all times when attending the academy. However, we will offer a &lsquo;blazer amnesty&rsquo; from <u>Friday 27<sup>th</sup> May</u> &ndash; any year 11 student can attend the academy without a blazer <u>after this date</u> if they are willing to donate their blazer to the school for use by students lower down the school. We will be extremely grateful for any donations and these can be submitted to the student hub from this date. Students will be given an &lsquo;amnesty card&rsquo; to enable them to be blazer free thereafter!</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">We will hold our Leavers Assembly on Wednesday 29th June. &nbsp;I do hope that you are able to join us in celebrating the many accomplishments of our students over the last 5 years here at OSCA.&nbsp; Details of this event will follow nearer the day.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Our students are a credit to the academy, and to you as parents. We wish them the very best of luck, and hope they achieve the great results they deserve in August. Many thanks in advance for your continued support at this very demanding time for year 11 students. They have given of their very best all year, and I am confident they will get through this final hurdle with flying colours.&nbsp; Please do contact us if you require any further information.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Mr M Wagstaff</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/y11_exam_cram_TT_wb_16may.pdf" target="_blank" title="Year 11 Exam Cram Timetable wb 16th May">Year 11 Exam Cram Timetable wb 16th May<br /></a><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/y11_exam_cram_TT_wb_23may.pdf" target="_blank" title="Year 11 Exam Cram Timetable wb 23rd May">Year 11 Exam Cram Timetable wb 23rd May</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Exam-Season-Letter-May-2016
Wed, 11 May 2016 00:00:00 GMTRounders Teams
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Rounders Teams</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">South Sandwell League Fixtures starting Thursday 12th May. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Training:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thursdays after school until 4:15pm for all teams if there is no fixture. Outdoor training most sessions (indoor if bad weather). On every week!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Fixtures for Years 7, 8, 9 and 10.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="Rounders Teams" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Rounders.jpg" alt="Rounders Teams" width="600" height="375" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Rounders-Teams
Fri, 29 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - April 2016
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - April 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I wanted to alert you to a change to our annual calendar.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In trying to plan ahead at the start of the year, we had intentionally put 2 training days on w/b 4<sup>th</sup> July to coincide with, and to mitigate against the effects of the Muslim festival of Eid.&nbsp; That is, so that Muslim students would be celebrating on a training day, rather than a school day.&nbsp; At that stage, early indications were that it would fall on the Tuesday, hence the initial timings.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside that, that week is transition week for our new year 6 pupils too. &nbsp;I had lobbied Sandwell LEA last summer to move transition day to the week before, but to no avail. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It now seems that Eid is likely to fall on the Thursday 7<sup>th</sup> July, although you may be aware we won&rsquo;t know for definite until the week itself.&nbsp; Rest assured, however, we won&rsquo;t change the dates again irrespective of this. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>As a result we wish to change the calendar for <span style="background-color: #00ffff;">week 38 - w/b 4<sup>th</sup> July:</span></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Monday 4<sup>th</sup> July - &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Normal day<br />Tuesday 5<sup>th</sup> July - &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <span style="background-color: #00ffff;">Transition day and evening</span> (normal day for all students)<br />Wednesday 6<sup>th</sup> July - &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Normal day<br />Thursday 7<sup>th</sup> July - &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Training day, only staff to attend<br />Friday 8<sup>th</sup> July - &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Training day, only staff to attend</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Although not ideal, this seems like the best solution.&nbsp; Hopefully, with over 2 months&rsquo; notice, it shouldn&rsquo;t cause any issues.&nbsp; Please do come back to us if any queries though, or if this causes your family any difficulties.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Also, to aid your planning for the summer, </strong><strong>September start dates will be as follows:</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Monday 5<sup>th</sup> and Tuesday 6<sup>th</sup> September - Training Days, only staff to attend<br />Wednesday 7<sup>th </sup>September -&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Induction day, only years 7 &amp; 12 to attend<br />Thursday 8<sup>th</sup> - &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Return for all other students</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thank you for your continued support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ms McMahon</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-April-2016
Wed, 27 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMTSalters Chemistry Festivalhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 26 Apr 2016 09:58:00 GMTCommunity Project Letter to Parents
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Community Project Letter to Parents</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><u><br />Year 6 and 7 Community Cohesion Project</u></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I have recently been involved in meetings with the local police team and the Head teacher at Tividale Community Primary School about developing a Community Project in Tividale and Oldbury for our Year 7 students and some Year 6 pupils.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Therefore, as a continued part of our responsibility to educate our children not just for the needs of the curriculum but also to enable them to have aspirations for their futures and the skills to become successful citizens, we would really like your help&hellip;.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are looking for parents with particular skills, hidden talents and hobbies (I know there are lots of you), or those of you who work in an Oldbury business, who would be able to donate some time to work on the project with our students.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Maybe you:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Are an excellent chef?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Have a jewellery, card making or cup-cake business?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Are a fine sports player, musician, artist, photographer designer or carpenter?</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All of these skills, and more, are ideal to help our students consider enterprise and careers for their futures.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The time commitment would involve five Friday afternoons for 6 weeks, between approximately 1pm and 3pm, starting on 20<sup>th</sup> May. Culminating on Friday 1<sup>st</sup> July, with a showcase at Tividale Community Primary School Summer Fayre, of what you and the pupils have been working on, or a stall selling the products.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We already have a group of Year 8, 7 and 6 children, who have been working hard preparing the ground at an allotment which the Tividale Park Allotment Group have kindly given us use of. They have been busy planting seeds to grow produce to sell at the Fayre.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We appreciate that many of you work, and that there is a time commitment involved, but this is an excellent project for our students to appreciate and be proud of the skills in their local community, whilst developing their own aspirations for their futures.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Many thanks in anticipation of your support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours sincerely,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Mrs G Garner<br />Senior Leader Pastoral and Transition</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><br /><u>COMMUNITY PROJECT</u></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you are interested in being involved in the Community Project please send the details requested below to <a href="mailto:gaynor.garner@ormistonsandwell.org.uk" target="_blank">gaynor.garner@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a> .</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Name:<br />Contact Number:<br />Skill:<br />Hobby:<br />Hidden Talent:<br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">If you would like any further information please contact me on the email address above of phoning the school direct.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Community-Project-Letter-to-Parents
Tue, 26 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMTRocket Science
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Rocket Science</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In September 2015, 2kg of rocket seeds (Eruca sativa) travelled on Soyuz 44S to the International Space Station. The seeds were stored by former British Army Air Corps officer and current European Space Agency astronaut Tim Peake before their return to Earth this spring. The seeds have been gathered for distribution by Rocket Science; an educational project launched by the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and the UK Space Agency.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA is one of the chosen academies to grow these seeds alongside seeds that haven't been to space, they will record measurements of the seedlings' growth over seven weeks. The students won't know which seeds have been to space, until all results have been collected by the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and analysed by professional biostatisticians.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img title="Rocket Science" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Rocket_Science.jpg" alt="Rocket Science" width="600" height="403" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Rocket-Science
Mon, 25 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMTWarwick University - Maths and Beyond Year 10 Triphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 08:40:00 GMTYear 8 Learning Pathways Assembly/Year_8_learning_Pathways_Assembly.pdf
Wed, 20 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMTExam Timetable - Summer 2016http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Exams/
Fri, 15 Apr 2016 10:45:00 GMTOn ecrit sur les murs - Kids United at OSCA
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<h1 class="HTXT">On &eacute;crit sur les murs - Kids United at OSCA</h1>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="74nfi-0-0"><span data-offset-key="74nfi-0-0"><span data-text="true">As part of the Y8 French curriculum, students have been studying the topic of music. Students were exposed to current French artists including a band called Kids United, made of 6 French youngsters aged between 8 and 15 who have released a single for the charity Unicef. </span></span></div>
</div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="77r4a-0-0"><span data-offset-key="77r4a-0-0">&nbsp;</span></div>
</div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6stt3-0-0"><span data-offset-key="6stt3-0-0"><span data-text="true">The single 'On &eacute;crit sur les murs' reached number 5 in the French charts and was so popular amongst our Y8 students that 7 students decided to do a cover of it.</span></span></div>
</div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="enrc8-0-0"><span data-offset-key="enrc8-0-0">&nbsp;</span></div>
</div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1ktlj-0-0"><span data-offset-key="1ktlj-0-0"><span data-text="true">Daniel (P7) played the guitar and Heather (V3), Louise (D1), Paige (V5), Stephanie (S7), Isabelle (V8) and Mankiran (V4) sang the lyrics in French. They all practised a lot at home but also after school on several occasions and the result is lovely.</span></span></div>
</div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="f8ddn-0-0"><span data-offset-key="f8ddn-0-0"><span data-text="true">Well done to all of you for your dedication and hard work!!</span></span></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="f8ddn-0-0"></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="f8ddn-0-0"><span data-offset-key="f8ddn-0-0"><span data-text="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wdNU5PrlmRA?wmode=opaque&amp;theme=dark" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/On-crit-sur-les-murs-Kids-United-at-OSCA
Tue, 12 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - March 2016/March_2016_newsletter.pdf
Wed, 23 Mar 2016 11:55:00 GMTMaths Feasthttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 23 Mar 2016 08:32:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - March 2016
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - March 2016</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we approach the end of another highly successful term here at OSCA, I am writing to share a few of the highlights of the term with you, and to confirm end of term arrangements.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Firstly, you may be aware that local year 6 pupils have now had their secondary school places confirmed. I am delighted to start by sharing with you the fantastic news that we are full and over subscribed for the third consecutive year!&nbsp; We also have a long waiting list of students who were not able to secure a place. This is a reflection of course of all the superb work we have been doing on raising standards here over the past three years.&nbsp; It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students - all with your superb support of course!&nbsp; As standards have risen, so too our reputation has justly improved, and our aspirations continue to rise too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As we continue to march on on our journey to becoming outstanding, standards continue to rise in every area of academy life- teaching and learning, behaviour and safety, and progress and achievement in particular. We continue to be the highest performing school in the whole borough for attendance, and indeed in the whole of the country!&nbsp; This matters so much of course, given the proven link between high attendance and high achievement and progress. Once again, I was delighted that a record number of students (545) were eligible for this term&rsquo;s reward trip!&nbsp; A well-deserved &lsquo;end of term treat&rsquo; for our hard working students. Airspace and Waterworld, here we come!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As ever though, the spring term is when we have that last concerted push with our exam cohorts. Year 11 have just undergone yet another round of mock exams, and I am delighted with how hard so many of them have worked.&nbsp; We are quietly very confident that this is going to be our best set of results yet, and will leave no stone unturned in our quest to achieve this.&nbsp; Our OSCA sixth students have similarly flourished under our new expectations, and the year 13 look set to improve on our previous best too.&nbsp; Many already have their university applications in, and they too will be giving their all&nbsp;in the coming months to ensure they move on to the next phase of their education and training.&nbsp; <strong><u>100%</u></strong> of them have already had offers for the university of their choice- you can&rsquo;t be more successful than that!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside all our hard work, we&rsquo;ve managed to have some fun too of course!&nbsp; Please follow the link to our <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/March_2016_newsletter.pdf" target="_blank" title="Newsletter - March 2016">newsletter</a>, which highlights just a few of the many enrichment activities students have taken part in too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The academy will close for students at 12pm on Thursday 24<sup>th</sup> March for the Easter break. The new term will start again for students on Tuesday 12<sup>th</sup> April, 8.30 sharp!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So, thank you once again for the excellent support you provide as us as parents and guardians, I know you know how important that partnership is for success.&nbsp; I hope you all have a great Easter, and a happy and relaxing few weeks.&nbsp; I look forward to welcoming all the students back in April, refreshed and ready for the rigours of next term!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Best wishes</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-March-2016
Wed, 23 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTThe Big Bang Fairhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 22 Mar 2016 11:28:00 GMTUniform Selling Dates
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Uniform Selling Dates</h1>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Gogna_Selling_Dates_and_Packages0002.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gogna"><img title="Gogna" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Gogna_Selling_Dates_and_Packages0002.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="777" /></a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Gogna_Selling_Dates_and_Packages0001.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gogna"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Gogna_Selling_Dates_and_Packages0001.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="777" /></a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Uniform-Selling-Dates-at-OSCA
Fri, 18 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTL4S Day Photos March 2016http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 15 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTD of E High Teahttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 07 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTRound Midnight Theatre Grouphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 04 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTSandwell Schools Athletics Competitionhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 04 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTBrilliant Club Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTOf Mice and Men Theatre Triphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMTWe Will Rock You Review
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">We Will Rock You Review</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA has recently recieved this wonderful email regarding the We Will Rock You Show.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">"Dear cast and crew of We Will Rock you,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thank you!!!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I'm a local resident who often walks my dogs past your school. I saw the signs for we will rock you on the main road and I came to the show last night. What a great idea to advertise it widely so local people like me could come and see what turned out to be a brilliant show. I felt welcomed and included in my local community and really happy to see what you achieved.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I laughed, I cheered and I may even have whooped at one point. My hands were above my head with the rest of the audience and I stamped my feet (stamp, stamp, clap) as instructed. Each and every one of you - on stage and behind- was brilliant. Thank you for letting me join you.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Years ago I was in a show like yours (west side story). I've never forgotten it and I'm still really proud of the show we produced. I hope each and every one of you have as happy and enduring memories of your achievement - you really and truly deserve to."</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/We-Will-Rock-You-Review
Mon, 29 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - February 2016/FEBRUARY_2016_newsletter.pdf
Fri, 12 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMTIssues on Facebookhttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/Issues-on-Facebook/
Tue, 26 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTLocal Update
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Local Update</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We are aware of an incident affecting a few local schools. OSCA is not affected. On local authority and police advice, we remain open as usual.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Local-Update-26012016102400
Tue, 26 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTPeru Trek Expedition 2017
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Peru Trek Expedition 2017</h1>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Peru Trek Expedition 2017:</span></strong></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There will be a Peru 2017 Expedition Presentation on Tuesday 26th at 5pm in the Foyer.<br />Come along and find out more......<br /></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Do Something Amazing............</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/peru_trek_poster.jpg" alt="Camp Peru" width="600" height="403" /></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Peru_presentation.jpg" alt="Peru Presentation" width="600" height="400" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Peru-Trek-Expedition-2017
Thu, 21 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTSandwell Schools Indoor Athletics Competition
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Sandwell Schools Indoor Athletics Competition</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">On Thursday 14th January OSCA pupils took part in the next round of the Sandwell Schools Indoor Athletics Competition. The behaviour and attitude matched the excellent effort that our pupils put in. The highlights were : (All out of 11 schools) </span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Yr 7s </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Farai Mudere - 2nd place (Sprint) &amp; 3rd place Shot Put </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Ethan Court - 1st place (Hurdles) &amp; 1st Place - Triple jump (New Yr 7 record distance - pic attached!) </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">William Jones - 3rd Place Long Jump) </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Relay team - 2nd Place</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Yr 8s </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Rahmadhani Rahmadhani - 1st place (sprint) </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Eugene Dadzie - 4th Place (Hurdles) </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Relay team - 2nd place</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Yr 9s </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Michelle Owusu - 1st place - (Sprint &amp; Hurdles, 4th - Long Jump </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Megan Hawley - 2nd place (Distance) </span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Relay team 2nd Place</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/IMG_4739.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/IMG_4743.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sandwell-Schools-Indoor-Athletics-Competiton
Fri, 15 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTTividale FC Girls Football Training Sessions
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Tividale FC Girls Football Training Sessions</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Tividale FC Girls Football Training Sessions:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Current school Year 3 and above.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Girls of all abilities welcome. Forming teams for upcoming season.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For further info contact Esme 07447620608 or 07572503111</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.tividalefootballacademy.co.uk/news/girls-football-training-sessions-1530947.html" target="_blank" title="Tividale FC Girls Football Training Sessions"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/d2dzjyo4yc2sta_cloudfront_net.png" alt="" width="600" height="850" /></span></a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Tividale-FC-Girls-Football-Training-Sessions
Thu, 14 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTEdgmond Hall Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 13 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newscast episode 6
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Newscast episode 6</h1>
<p><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/JNUceoq8aY4" width="600" height="350"></iframe></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Newscast-episode-6
Tue, 12 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Social Media
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Social Media</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">I am writing to you to clarify elements of the academy&rsquo;s policy on the misuse of social media. We know from our discussions with other head teachers and senior colleagues, primary and secondary, that this is a nationwide issue. You have probably seen many cases reported too in the media. Recently, we have been made aware, by both students and parents, of several incidences of the misuse of social media, sometimes by our students and other times where our students have been the victims of misuse.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">I wanted to assure you that if any aspect of ICT is misused in the Academy on our equipment, or if there is any misuse of the Academy email system either in or out of normal academy hours, then, due to the sophisticated filters in operation, we <strong>will</strong> identify and address this misuse. Fortunately, this type of misuse is incredibly rare and this is helped by the fact that students are not able to access any social media sites on our network.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Indeed, most of the inappropriate use of the internet is done from home or on students&rsquo; mobile devices during evenings, weekends and holidays.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&nbsp;<strong><u>Staff at the Academy have no jurisdiction to deal with this, and cannot investigate it.</u></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">It should be noted that in many cases a child may put themselves at considerable risk due to the misuse of social media accidentally. E.g. giving personal details, publishing photographs, etc. to a &lsquo;friend&rsquo; who then distributes this information more widely. They need to be fully aware of this risk.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">&nbsp;The responsibility for monitoring a child&rsquo;s use of social media, or indeed the internet in general, must lie with parents/guardians. We strongly encourage you to discuss issues around this with your children and I have placed a document containing advice intended to support you in this process on our website. The link for this is <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Social_Media_Guidance_UKCCIS_.pdf" target="_blank" title="Social Media Guidance">here</a>.<br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">In addition to this document, we have also put links to other websites containing further advice around children&rsquo;s use of ICT on our Academy website. This can be accessed through <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/ParentInfo-org/" title="Parentinfo.org">here.</a><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">If your child is the victim of inappropriate use then we strongly recommend that you as a parent/guardian report the matter to both the website developer and to the police. As stated earlier, unless an issue manifests itself during the normal academy day, our staff are not able to address this.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">However, to support you and your child the Academy will:<br /></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Continue, through PSHE and assemblies, to educate students of the dangers of inappropriate use of the internet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Continue to monitor the use of any form of ICT in normal academy hours and the use of the Academy email system at all times, and will deal with anything deemed inappropriate</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Refer anything that we believe could be defined as, or could potentially lead to, a Child Protection issue to the appropriate external agencies</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Continue to support parents with advice on how to tackle inappropriate use either by their own child or others</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">I hope that you find this document and website links useful and by working together, as outlined in this letter, I trust that we can keep all our students safe and well.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Andy Morgan</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: arial;">Acting Vice Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Social-Media
Tue, 12 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTIceland trip 2017
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Iceland trip 2017</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Iceland trip 2017 information. Watch the video or download the information <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Iceland_2017.pdf" target="_blank" title="Iceland 2017">here.</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/3W7bLRVNHMM" width="600" height="350"></iframe></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Iceland-trip-2017
Tue, 12 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTSpring Sports Clubs
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Spring Sports Clubs</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/sports_clubs_poster_spring_2016.jpg" alt="Spring Sports Clubs" width="600" height="338" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Spring-Sports-Clubs-06012016122400
Wed, 06 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMTSanta Baby Reveal Video
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Santa Baby Reveal Video</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/D9ibYqnYZjI" width="599" height="337"></iframe></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Santa-Baby-Reveal-Video
Fri, 18 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - December 2015/December_2015_newsletter_Pictures_no_last_names.pdf
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Christmas 2015
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principals Letter to Parents - Christmas 2015</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">December 2015</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I hope you are all well, and are enjoying any preparations for the holidays ahead! As we approach the end of another busy, highly successful term, I just wanted to keep you up to date on recent events, and to confirm arrangements for the end of term and the start of the New Year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Clearly, maximising achievements in exams remains our number 1 priority. Year 11 have had a busy few weeks of mock exams, helping them to prepare for 'the real thing' and we have been delighted with their maturity and motivation to do well. As you know, OSCA achieved its best GCSE results ever in the summer, and we have raised the bar even higher for 2016, so the pressure is on! We look forward to celebrating some excellent mock results with year 11 over the coming weeks.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside our work on preparing students to get the best possible exam results,&nbsp;you know that I am equally passionate that learning should also be fun. We certainly have had some fantastic enrichment activities over the last half term to complement all the work we are doing improving teaching and learning and raising standards. Full details of these are available on the website, and in particular in our end of term newsletter, which you can download <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/December_2015_newsletter_copy_2.pdf" target="_blank" title="Newsletter - December 2015">here</a>. This also includes key dates for your diary. The academy re-opens for students at <strong>8.30 am on Tuesday 5th January</strong>, for the spring term 2016.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">One of the highlights of the term for me has been the number of awards we have won as an academy! These have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Investors in People Silver Award, at the very first accreditation.&nbsp;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The OAT Gold Award for outstanding achievement in Science</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The OAT Gold Award for outstanding achievement in Attendance. (We are once again the highest performing school in the borough in this field this term, and one of the top performers in the whole country). This is so important, given the proven link between high attendance and outstanding results.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Music Mark, for outstanding and innovative practice in music education</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Holocaust Beacon Schools Status. This has only been awarded to NINE schools in the whole country</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; The CEIAG (Career Information Advice and Guidance) Quality Mark, for outstanding and innovative practice in careers education</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Developing Democracy Award. This award is given by the British Youth Council to schools who have been encouraging students to have their say in society - both within the school or through social action projects in the local community. OSCA is one of only 19 Schools nationally to hold this award.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In other words, lots of &lsquo;Oscars&rsquo; for &lsquo;OSCA&rsquo;! And all this in just one term! In fact, we have won so many awards, we are now going to create an &lsquo;awards wall&rsquo; in reception to celebrate our successes. Look out for this on your next visit to the academy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">As a reward for the further&nbsp;improved standards of uniform, behaviour and attendance across the Academy this term, on Friday 18th December we will be taking part in &lsquo;Wear a Christmas Jumper Day&rsquo;. This is optional and open to all staff and students at a charge of &pound;1. This is for a great cause where money raised goes to three charities - Macmillan Cancer Support, Make A Wish, &amp; Save The Children. The academy will finish on <strong><u>Friday 18<sup>th</sup> December at 12pm</u></strong> for all students.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please note that lessons will continue as normal this week, so it is really important all students have 100% attendance even in the run up to Christmas, so they do not miss out on any learning. Please note that attendance on Friday too is compulsory, and essential if students wish to be eligible for next term's reward trip.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, thank you once again for your support and partnership this term.&nbsp; Attendance remains at a record high, behaviour referrals are down again, ethos and the standard of uniform are excellent, and the quality of teaching and learning is rising all the time. And, of course, this was all validated by our Ofsted &lsquo;good&rsquo; judgment earlier in the year. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It is really encouraging that all of these improvements continue to&nbsp;have an extremely positive impact on OSCA's reputation and popularity.&nbsp; Indeed, we have recently welcomed many of our partner primary heads and deputies to OSCA to tour the academy during the school day, and to see our students and staff in action. This has included the heads from Oakham Primary, Tividale Community, Tividale Hall, and Rounds Green. They have all been really impressed with our standards here, and comments have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &lsquo;OSCA has a real family feel to it. I am really taken with your ethos and standards&rsquo;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &lsquo;Behaviour is impeccable&rsquo;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &lsquo;It is so reassuring to see you are continuing to stretch the students academically, but still look after them, a bit like we do at primary school&rsquo;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &lsquo;What a transformation! I love what you are doing here!&rsquo;</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Do chat to the heads themselves if you have children at these primary schools, and they can tell you all about it! As you know, we are already full and over-subscribed with a waiting list in years 7 &amp; 8. We&nbsp;now know from the local authority that we are likely to find this replicated in the new year 7 in 2016. &nbsp;Of course, we only have 180 places available, so competition for places is likely to be fierce once again! A great accolade for all the fantastic work we are doing here in our determination to make OSCA a beacon of excellence in Sandwell and beyond.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I am so proud of everything staff and students have achieved this year, and of how they have responded to a continual raising of the bar as we move towards outstanding. Of course, none of this could happen without your support as parents and guardians, and I look forward to sharing even more successes with you in the new year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">With best wishes for a peaceful and enjoyable holiday, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon<br />Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Christmas-2015
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 8 Class Band - Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 8 Class Band - Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Not to be outdone our Year 8 Class band wanted to get in on the Christmas action too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Here is there performance of Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer, with a special message for everyone at the end. Enjoy and Merry Christmas!</span></p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/YjnZJanrpRo" width="603" height="339"></iframe></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-8-Class-Band-Rudolf-the-Red-Nosed-Raindeer
Mon, 14 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 7 Class Band - Jingle Bells
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 7 Class Band - Jingle Bells</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our year 7 Class Band have had their instruments for just 7 lessons (that&rsquo;s 7 hours) and are already mastering some of the fundamental skills required on their instruments.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">They wanted to celebrate their success and spread a little Christmas cheer with thir performance of Jingle Bells!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Merry Christmas from The Year 7 Class Band.</span></p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/JDnxSIo1zVo" width="602" height="339"></iframe></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-7-Class-Band-Jingle-Bells
Fri, 11 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 7 House Football
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 7 House Football</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There was another great night of inter house competition in P.E on Tuesday 8th December. The Year 7 boys had a great turn out for their football competition. The teams finished In the following order.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1st. Davinci</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> 2nd. Shakespeare</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> 3rd. Picasso<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> 4th. Dahl</span></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/YRHF__1_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/YRHF__2_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/YRHF__3_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/YRHF__4_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
</div>http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-7-House-Football-09122015081741
Wed, 09 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTOSCA's Enrichment Newsletter/docs/Enrichment_Newsletter_PDF.pdf
Tue, 08 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTL4S Day Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 08 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTDeveloping Democracy Award
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Developing Democracy Award</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA are very proud to have been one of the first 19 schools in the country to have been awarded this recognition due to the work on teaching democracy and british values, and the work of its student leadership teams.</span></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/The-British-Youth-Council-Democracy-award-logos-Brief-2-FINAL-2.png" alt="" width="300" height="314" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><strong>Local Academy receives National Recognition.</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy Press release</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A local academy is one of the first schools in the country to be presented the British Youth Council&rsquo;s Developing Democracy Award. Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, Oldbury, adds the brand new award to its achievements in 2015, including being rated as Good by Ofsted back in May.</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The new Award is for schools that encourage pupils to take an interest in the democratic process and along with only 18 other schools nationally, OSCA received its award on Monday 23<sup>rd</sup> November. The Developing Democracy award is given to schools who have been encouraging pupils to have their say in society - both within the school or through social action projects in the local community.</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The Discovering Democracy Award, which was created to support the need to develop character as well as a strong grounding in core academic subjects, was launched by the British Youth Council in partnership with the Cabinet Office and the Department for Education in September. The Award aims to showcase those schools who engage young people, particularly those aged 16+, with democracy from an early age, whether that is voting for their representatives or &nbsp;a school council, or voter registration, or getting involved in social action campaigns.</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">All awards are judged by a panel of young people and celebrate and share the success of schools and colleges that go further in equipping their students with the skills and knowledge to use their voice in our society.</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Jon Foster, Chair of the British Youth Council said:&nbsp; "The British Youth Council is delighted to highlight the great work of schools up and down the country. Schools are often the best place to offer the foundations to nurture grassroots democracy and I'm really excited to find so many schools leading the way!"</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA was also recognised locally for its contribution to developing students&rsquo; knowledge of democracy when one of its members of staff was recognised at the SHAPE awards, hosted by Sandwell Council. Sajidah Ali, a Senior Tutor for OSCA Sixth was recognised for her &lsquo;outstanding contribution to improving voter registration and facilitating democratic engagement&rsquo; in the school by the elections team at Sandwell Council.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon, Principal said: &lsquo;I am delighted that our students are taking such an interest in the fundamental British value of democracy, and very proud that we have won an award for our efforts. It is yet another accolade in a fantastic year for the academy, and we are working tirelessly to ensure there are many more to come&rsquo;.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Developing-Democracy-Award
Thu, 03 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 8 House Football
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 8 House Football</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">On Tuesday 1st December OSCA students played the Year 8 House Football competition. Nice again to see so many students taking part. The final positions were:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1st - Dahl</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> 2nd - Shakespeare</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> 3rd - Picasso<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> 4th - Da Vinci</span></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year8__1_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year8__2_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year8__3_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year8__4_.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-8-House-Football-02122015081511
Wed, 02 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMTHouse Football
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">House Football</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Last night Year 11s took part in the house football tournament. It was really pleasing to see such competitive games with such a pleasant atmosphere created by the lads.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">1st Dahl </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> 2nd Shakespeare </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> 3rd Picasso <span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> 4th Da Vinci</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/HF_Nov_2015__1_.jpg" alt="HF1" width="600" height="450" /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/HF_Nov_2015__2_.jpg" alt="HF2" width="600" height="450" /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/HF_Nov_2015__3_.jpg" alt="HF3" width="600" height="450" /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/HF_Nov_2015__4_.jpg" alt="HF4" width="600" height="600" /></span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/House-Football
Wed, 25 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMTComicCon Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 23 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMTClass of 2015 Presentation Eveninghttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 18 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Reward System 2015http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/Student-Rewards-Scheme/
Wed, 18 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMTEnrichment at OSCA 2015/Enrichment_at_OSCA_2015.pdf
Mon, 09 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMTPE Extra Curricular Timetable
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">PE Extra Curricular Timetable</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The PE Department are interested in adapting the timetable for this &frac12; term,&nbsp; they would like to include activities that are not currently running.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Student ideas are welcome!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please see any member of the PE staff or Student Sports Council with your&nbsp; suggestions for any new activity that you would like to be included.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Thank you!</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/P_E_Timetable.jpg" alt="P.E" width="600" height="375" /></div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/PE-Extra-Curricular-Timetable
Fri, 06 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMTCongratulations D Soulsby
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Congratulations D Soulsby</h1>
<p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; text-align: left; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dominic Soulsby is a member of the Warley Wasp Swimming Club. In October he competed in the Gloucester Open meet over 2 days and produced 3 out of 4 personal bests. His new personal best time for 2 lengths front crawl is 30.4 seconds. Out of around 30 clubs competing from around the country, he was ranked 7th.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; text-align: left; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; text-align: left; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Currently Dominic is the top 13 year old in the club and is due to receive 5 more trophies at the end of this month at the Warley Wasps presentation evening.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; text-align: left; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; text-align: left; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Well done and good luck in all your forthcoming competitions.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; text-align: left; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; text-align: left; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Swimming.jpg" alt="Swimming" width="600" height="375" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Congratulations-D-Soulsby
Thu, 05 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 8 Theatre Triphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 23 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - October 2015http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/October%202015%20newsletter.pdf
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTPrincipal's Letter to Parents - Autumn 2015
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Principal's Letter to Parents - Autumn 2015</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">October 2015</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">I wanted to update you on events and progress at OSCA as this half term draws to a close. And what an enjoyable half term it&rsquo;s been!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We started the term off in style, celebrating our best 6<sup>th</sup> form results ever, our highest ever academic GCSE results, and the fact that our year 11 had doubled the % of the elite A*/A grades achieved too! In true OSCA spirit though, we are not complacent, and have continued to raise the bar and our expectations of students again this year. &nbsp;We were the highest performing school on attendance in the whole of Sandwell last year for the second consecutive year, and one of the highest performing in the whole country!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">We have set even higher targets for achievement and attendance this year though, and again I would like to thank parents and families for all your support on this. Every year, when we do an analysis of results, we find the highest achievers are also the highest attenders. So, being here every day, on time, well equipped, smartly dressed and ready to learn, really does pay off in terms of success.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Alongside all the hard graft, we have managed to have a bit of fun and some adventures too - please see the attached newsletter for just some of the great things that have happened this half term, as well as some key dates.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">And finally, OSCA&rsquo;s popularity continues to grow in the community. As you may know we are full and oversubscribed in years 7 and 8, with a waiting list for places, for the second consecutive year. With a half term under their belt now, the year 7 are shaping up to be our brightest, biggest, and best year group ever! Furthermore, we hosted an exceptionally popular open evening in September for year 6 students and their families. Attendance was fantastic- our highest ever number of families came to visit.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">The verbal and written feedback from prospective students and parents alike was superb. In response to the question &lsquo;What three words would you use to describe OSCA?&rsquo; descriptions included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Mind Blowing/Brilliant /Bright</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Exciting / Modern/ Friendly</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Improved / Positive/ Welcoming</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Fun / Respect/Happy</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Enthusiastic/Smart / High Expectations</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Enjoyable / Super/Outstanding</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Very helpful/polite staff and students</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Caring / Amazing/ Approachable</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Innovative / Educational /Brilliant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Vibrant /Incredible/ Warm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Smashing / Excellent/ Helpful</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Interesting / Upcoming/Lovely</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Inspiring /Knowledgeable/Impressive ethos</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Impressive / Organised/ Explanatory</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Fantastic / Inviting/ Students Positive</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">It is fair to say therefore that competition for places is likely to continue to be fierce in 2016.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">So,&nbsp;a big thank from me once again for all your support this half term, and best wishes for a happy and enjoyable half term week.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Letter-to-Parents-Autumn-2015
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTFree Five-a-Side Futsal
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Free Five-a-Side Futsal</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Free 5-a-Side Futsal!</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Every Tuesday 6pm - 7pm Complete Kidz.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Make a team with your mates. T-shirts and other prizes up for grabs.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">For more info:<br />email: <a href="mailto:nnahgamston@completekidz.co.uk">hannahgamston@completekidz.co.uk</a><br />phone: 0121 552 2006<br /></span></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/futsal2.jpg" alt="Free 5-a-Side Futsal!" width="600" height="359" /></p>
<p><a href="http://completekidz.co.uk/" target="_blank" title="Complete Kidz Website"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/10360092_199x101.png" alt="Complete Kidz Website" width="199" height="101" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://completekidz.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://completekidz.co.uk/</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Free-Five-a-Side-Futsal
Tue, 20 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTEdgmond Hall Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 19 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 Drama Lessonhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 19 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTComicCon Trip
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">ComicCon Trip</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Media and Film Studies Trip to ComicCon!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">There are limited places available for the Trip to ComicCon in Birmingham on Saturday 21st November.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Please see Mr Wagstaff ASAP if you are interested.</span></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.mcmcomiccon.com/birmingham/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.mcmcomiccon.com/birmingham/</a></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/comicon.jpg" alt="ComicCon" width="600" height="400" /></span></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/ComicCon-Trip
Fri, 16 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTSandwell Schools Indoor Athletics League
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<h1 class="HTXT">Sandwell Schools Indoor Athletics League</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA Students recently took part in the Sandwell Schools Indoor Athletics League. We had some really encouraging performances. There were 11 competing schools and the highlights listed below are finishing positions out of 11. Their efforts and behaviour was as always exemplary.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 7s:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> E Court - 1st place - Triple jump (New Sandwell Schools record- photo below) </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> 2nd Place &ndash; Hurdles</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> W Jones - 3rd Place - Long Jump</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> S Hackett - 2nd Place - Shot Put</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Year 7 combined scores meant team finished 2nd place overall</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 8s:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> R Wilson - 3rd Place - Shot Put &amp; Long Jump</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> R Ramadhani -4th Place &ndash; Sprint</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> E Dadzi - 3rd Place &ndash; Hurdles</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> M Chamberlain - 5th Place &ndash; Distance</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Relay - 2nd Place (Photo below)</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Year 8 team 5th Place overall</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Year 9s:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Ebenezer Chatawe - 3rd Place - Shot Put &amp; Long Jump</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Bradley Birch - 3rd Place - Triple Jump</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Jahmiah Williams - 2nd Place &ndash; Hurdles</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Manjinder Singh - 4th Place &ndash; Sprint</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Year 9s finished 6th Place overall</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/atletics%20(3).JPG" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/atletics%20(2).JPG" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/atletics%20(3).JPG" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sandwell-Schools-Indoor-Athletics-League
Fri, 16 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTU21 England vs Kazakhstanhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTHumanUtopia Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTEdgmond Hall Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTCollege and Sixth From Open Eventshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/College%20and%20Sixth%20Form%20Open%20Days%202015%20-%202016.pdf
Wed, 14 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTWe Will Rock You! Rehearsals
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">We Will Rock You! Rehearsals</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Rehearsals for We Will Rock You got off to a flying start after school on Tuesday. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Rehearsals are every Tuesday 3pm-5pm and Wednesday lunchtimes. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Check the board in PAPA for details.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><iframe src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk//www.youtube.com/embed/GMVwSCvSPok" width="600" height="350"></iframe></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/We-Will-Rock-You-Rehearsals
Thu, 08 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTBasketball Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Basketball Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA&rsquo;s under 16 girls basketball team played a knockout fixture against a very strong George Salters team last night. Unfortunately they soundly beat us 34 v 5 which knocked our girls out of the competition. Our girls were absolutely exceptional and graceful in defeat however and played to a very high standard matching the opposition on the court for competitive edge and strength. The experience of the opposition paid off for them. The team are keen to play again so fixtures are being arranged and your support for them would be fabulous. Behaviour of the team was brilliant throughout.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Well done to:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A Walters - Captain (Player of the game)</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">L Spooner</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">M Hall</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">S Green</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A Ghaddar</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">A Williams</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">T Baker</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">R Foster</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our under 14 girls also played a friendly fixture against the same opposition last night with the help of some of the older girls named above. Again they lost but the girls who played had a fantastic competitive experience and smiled throughout</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Well done to:</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">R Foster</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">C Bryan</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">B Ricketts</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Basketball-Results-07102015081235
Wed, 07 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTFootball Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Football Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">OSCA Football Results:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">In awful conditions our lads played really well. However, some mixed results:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our Year 10 team won 5 - 2 with goals from H Cotton, 2 from D Sandhu and 1 from O Downing.</span></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our Year 7s were much improved losing 5 - 2 with our goals from B Meridith and J Debeney.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Our Year 8s unfortunately lost 7 - 0 but the score line didn't reflect the performance.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;">Again the attitude, effort and behaviour of all of our teams were exemplary!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image1.JPG_2.jpg" alt="Football1" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 10pt;"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image2.JPG_2.jpg" alt="Football2" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Football-Results-07102015081716
Wed, 07 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTParis Trip 2015 Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 02 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTPAPA Extra-Curricular Timetable
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">PAPA Extra-Curricular Timetable</h1>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/PAPA%20EXTRA-CURRICULAR%20TIMETABLE.jpg" alt="PAPA EXTRA-CURRICULAR TIMETABLE" width="600" height="421" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/PAPA-Extra-Curricular-Timetable
Fri, 02 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMTStepping Up Info
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Stepping Up Info</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Click <a title="Year 11 Stepping Up Info" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Stepping_Up_2015.pdf" target="_blank">here</a> to download the Year 11 Stepping Up Information pack</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Below is the Year 11 Study Support Timetable:</span></p>
<table style="width: 584px; height: 370px;" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Monday &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; </span></strong></td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tuesday &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </span></strong></td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Wednesday &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></strong></td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Thursday &nbsp; </span></strong></td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Friday&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; text-align: center;">
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Lunch</strong><br /></span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; text-align: center;">
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #00ff00;">R.E</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">1.20pm - 2pm</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Graphics</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">1.20pm - 2.pm <br />Room A1</span></p>
</td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</td>
<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; text-align: center;">
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #666699;">French</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">1.20 - 2pm<br />Room O13</span></p>
</td>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>After Schoo</strong>l<br /></span></p>
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<td style="border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #999999;">Sociology</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">4pm - 4.30pm <br />Room O13</span></td>
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<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #3366ff;">Geography</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm - 4pm <br />Room O5</span><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #339966;">Science</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm - 4pm <br />Room S2</span><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #ff00ff;">Art </span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm - 4.30pm <br />Rooms<br />DLM &amp; DL Groups</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #00ff00;">R.E</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm - 4pm <br />Room O1</span></p>
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<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #008000;">Maths</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm - 4pm</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Maths Rooms</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #339966;">Science</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm-4pm <br />Room S2</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #00ffff;">PAPA</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm - 4pm<br /> RoomS23</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small; color: #ff9900;">History</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3pm - 4pm <br />Room O4</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="color: #ff00ff;">Art</span></strong><br />3pm - 5pm Art<br /> Rooms All Groups</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #ff00ff;">Food Technology</span></strong><br />1.30 - 2.30pm <br />Room S18</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #3366ff;">Geography</span></strong><br />1.45pm - 2.25pm<br />Room O5</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #800080;">Art</span></strong><br />1.30pm - 4.30pm<br />Art Rooms<br />All Groups<br /></span></p>
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</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Stepping-Up-Info-Pack
Fri, 18 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Target Setting Day/docs/TSD_Letter_to_Parents2015.pdf
Tue, 15 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTWe Will Rock You!
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1>We Will Rock You!</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hi All,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cannot believe the time is upon us again, seems like 5 minutes since Hairspray!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Over the next two weeks, PAPA will be holding auditions to cast this year's school production, WE WILL ROCK YOU!</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">If students would like to audition they need to see Miss Ball for an audition pack and sign up for a time slot.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img title="We Will Rock You" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/we_will_rock_you.jpg" alt="wewillrockyou" width="600" height="391" /></span></p>
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</div>http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/We-Will-Rock-You
Fri, 11 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTAssessment at OSCAhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/Assessment-at-OSCA/
Thu, 10 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Sports Clubs
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<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Sports Clubs</h1>
<p>&nbsp;<img title="OSCA Sports Clubs" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/OSCASportsClub_2015-16.jpg" alt="OSCA Sports Clubs 2015/16" width="600" height="375" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Sports-Clubs
Tue, 08 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTNew Timetables
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<h1 class="HTXT">New Timetables</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Timetables have now been emailed to all students in Years 8 - 11. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Parents/Carers of students in Years 8 - 11 should also receive a copy if they have registered an email address with the Academy.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/New-Timetables
Fri, 04 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTA Level Results 2015 Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 03 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTGCSE Results 2015 Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 03 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMTHighest Ever Academic GCSE Scores!
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<h1 class="HTXT">Highest Ever Academic GCSE Scores!</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>OSCA celebrates a record number of elite A* and A grades, and its highest ever academic GCSE scores!</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong></strong>The students and staff at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy, Tividale are celebrating more great news today as they receive their GCSE results, with 50% achieving the top 5A*-C grades, and a huge increase in the elite A* and A grades.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The academy, recently graded as Good by Ofsted, is once again celebrating its best academic GCSE results ever. This continues the trend of year on year improvement; including this year a significant increase in the achievement of the top grades of A* and A in a range of subjects- these have more than doubled since last year!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Notable OSCA achievements this year include:<img style="float: right;" title="GCSEResults" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/26.JPG" alt="GCSE" width="300" height="216" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Megan Bailey &ndash; 5A*s and 5As</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Abigail Bullock &ndash; 5A*s, 5As and 2Bs</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Seetal Chohan &ndash; 3A*s and 7As</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Jaspreet Rayat &ndash; 3A*s and 7As</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Ching Lam Lee - 1A*, 7As and 1B</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Rajdeep Sahota &ndash; 1A*, 5As and 4Bs</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Prabjheet Gill &ndash; 8As and 2Bs</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Ilona Willetts &ndash; 5As and 5Bs</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Jordan Jakeways &ndash; 2As, 8Bs and 1C</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Asad Iqbal &ndash; 6As and 4 Bs</strong> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">2015 has been a significant year for OSCA as it has completed its &pound;10 million academy development project, and also managed to make leaps and bounds in students&rsquo; progress.&nbsp; Expected progress in English has increased to 75% this year. Moreover, there was a 19% rise in the number of students exceeding national expectations. Some students at OSCA have managed to make an outstanding 5 and 6 levels of progress in the core subjects. These include:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Rajdeep Sahota &ndash; 6 Levels of progress in Maths</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Keah Tyler and Jake Hawley &ndash; 5 levels of progress in Maths</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong>Charlotte Bakewell, Kardo Rawunduzy, Simran Singh and George Kyte all managed to make a phenomenal 5 levels of progress in GCSE English.</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">One OSCA student, Marinela Tashos has made incredible progress during her 10 months at OSCA, having only arrived in the UK from Greece in the summer of 2014. Marinela has managed to secure 1A*, 3As and 5Bs- all in just 10 months!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The Academy has also made good use of the Pupil Premium funding it receives to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, having closed progress and attainment gaps for these students across a number of measures.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Staff and Governors at the Academy were rolling out the red carpet to celebrate the academy&rsquo;s success in style as students arrived to receive their results.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Marie McMahon said: &lsquo;Wow- what a fantastic end to a tremendous term! Best ever academic GCSE results, on top of best ever 6<sup>th</sup> form results last week, doubling the percentage of the elite A* and A grades, the Ofsted Good judgement, and superb new facilities- what an achievement. I am so proud of all our students and staff, and so grateful for the fantastic support we have received from our parents and guardians. Next stage: outstanding!&rsquo;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Professor Toby Salt, CEO of Ormiston Academies Trust said: &ldquo;Congratulations to students and staff at OSCA for their results today.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&ldquo;We will continue to do everything we can to provide an excellent education to all OAT students. OSCA is continuing to raise students' aspirations and provide them with a strong foundation from which to build their futures.&rdquo;</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/GCSE-Results-2015
Thu, 20 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMTBest Ever A Level Results at OSCA
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<h1 class="HTXT">Best Ever A Level Results at OSCA</h1>
<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy celebrated their best ever sixth form results today, marking yet another year of academic improvement and personal achievements for its&rsquo; students and staff.</span></div>
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<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">This is an excellent set of results for the academy. It confirms the academy&rsquo;s continued improvement following its recent Ofsted inspection grading it as good across all categories, for the first time in its history.</span></div>
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<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">100% of students achieved grades A*-E. The majority (61%) of the students collecting their results today have received 3 or more level 3 qualifications, and almost all achieved 2 or more.</span></div>
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<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attainment was exceptionally strong in vocational subjects with students securing best ever results for the variety of subjects on offer at OSCA Sixth. Their &lsquo;value added&rsquo; score is likely to be significantly higher than all schools and colleges nationally! There were some outstanding individual performances:</span></div>
<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img style="float: right;" title="Rebecca Allen 1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Rebecca_Allen_1.jpg" alt="Rebecca Allen 1" width="300" height="242" /></span></div>
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<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Rebecca Allen &ndash; Completed 3 vocational courses within 1 academic year after previously dropping out of a local 6th&nbsp;form college. She has finished OSCA with one Distinction*, one Distinction and a Merit- all in just 1 year instead of the usual two years!.&nbsp; OSCA staff have worked closely with Rebecca to support her through this year, and she even decided late on to apply for university and has been offered a place to study Early Childhood.</span></div>
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<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Other students have done exceedingly well too, for instance by gaining 4 or even 5 level 3 qualifications. These include:</span></div>
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<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Maryam Shahban &ndash; Three Distinction*s and a Grade C </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Chloe Ward : Two Distinction*s, 1 Distinction, 1 Merit and a D</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Shimaila Ayaz&nbsp; - Two Distinction*s,&nbsp; a B and 2 E&rsquo;s</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Harkamaljit Kaur &ndash; Two Distinction*s ,a Distinction, a grade B and a D.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sorbia Begum - Three Distinction&rsquo;s, a Distinction and a Merit.</span></div>
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<div><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">OSCA Sixth is extremely proud that record numbers of year 13 students have applied to university and have been accepted to study the courses of their choice, in a whole range of subjects.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Principal Marie McMahon said: &ldquo;The celebrations just keep on coming at OSCA! To have achieved our best ever A level results in the same year the academy was graded as good, and following on from the launch of our new, fantastic facilities, is the icing on the cake. I am immensely proud of all the students have achieved with the support of their teachers and families. I wish them all the very best for a happy and successful future.&rsquo;<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Professor Toby Salt, CEO of the sponsor Ormiston Academies Trust added: &ldquo;Congratulations to the staff and students at OSCA for their hard work this year. This has been a great year for the academy, with praise from Ofsted and a fantastic new building.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&ldquo;I wish all OSCA students the very best in their future endeavours.&rdquo;</span></div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Best-Ever-A-Level-Results-at-OSCA
Tue, 18 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - July 2015http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/July_2015_newsletter_sue.pdf
Fri, 17 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Summer 2015
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Summer 2015</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">As we approach the end of another busy term, I just wanted to give you a few updates, and confirm the end of term arrangements.&nbsp; And what a term it&rsquo;s been! &nbsp;Some highlights for me have included:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Last half term, receiving the &lsquo;GOOD&rsquo; judgement from Ofsted for the 1<sup>st</sup> time ever in the academy or predecessor school&rsquo;s history.&nbsp; This means we have moved from being an academy in a category just over 2 years ago, to an academy &nbsp;where:</span></li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Teaching &amp; Learning are good</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Behaviour &amp; Safety are good</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;Leadership and &amp; Management are good</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;Achievement &amp; Progress are good</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;And all not just good, but still rapidly improving</span></li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We are the top performing school in the whole borough again this year for attendance, for the 2<sup>nd</sup> consecutive year.&nbsp; This matters so much given the link between high attendance and high achievement in exams</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We are once again full and oversubscribed for the 2<sup>nd</sup> consecutive year, we have a long&nbsp;waiting list, and for the first time ever, we had to attend the appeals panel last week as some pupils who didn&rsquo;t get into OSCA were so disappointed, they appealed again to come here and not to the school they had been allocated!</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&lsquo;The Launch&rsquo; event this month to officially open our fantastic new facilities.&nbsp; It was great to see so many parents and families there, and to enjoy such a great community event</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Our OSCA Awards Ceremony last night, attended by approximately 400 guests and proud parents and guardians.&nbsp; We gave out 150 awards, all for outstanding effort and achievement.&nbsp; It was particularly impressive to see our &lsquo;Brilliant Club&rsquo; Graduates in full university gowns and mortar boards, already producing university level assignments</span></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">To have achieved everything we have in just over 2 years is pretty impressive, I am sure you will agree.&nbsp; But, of course, we don&rsquo;t plan to stop there.&nbsp; We have very firmly set our sights on &lsquo;outstanding&rsquo;.&nbsp; Our new Academy Development Plan has been written, and we will leave no stone unturned in our quest to keep raising standards across the board.&nbsp; Your support in all of this has, of course, been absolutely pivotal, and it has been a real pleasure working in partnership with you this year.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thank you to those parents and guardians who completed the latest survey on promoting healthier drinking habits at the academy.&nbsp; This concluded on Monday - the very day the issue around fizzy and energy drinks hit the national headlines!&nbsp; I am pleased to say that the overwhelming majority were in favour of banning the drinks.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;<img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Capture2.JPG" alt="" width="600" height="106" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The results of the parental survey are below:</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We will, therefore, go with the majority view.&nbsp; That means that from September:</span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">All energy and fizzy drinks are banned from all areas of the academy</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Any energy or fizzy drinks brought onto the premises will be confiscated and binned.&nbsp; Practically, this is the only way to do it, as it would be too time consuming (and potentially messy!) to keep hold of drinks and return them</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students may bring in plain water (not flavoured, as this often contains more sugar than e.g. coke) and fruit juice only </span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please can I ask that you reiterate this with your children, reinforce that, like you, we have their best interests at heart, and are going for a &lsquo;healthy body, healthy mind&rsquo; approach.&nbsp; This is only one part of our drive to move learning and behaviour to outstanding, but I am confident it will have the desired impact, alongside all our other school improvement measures.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">As many parents and guardians will be buying new uniform in preparation for September just a reminder that the uniform list is on the website on the <a title="Uniform" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Parents/School-Uniform/">Parents'</a> page. &nbsp;We have had excellent support from the overwhelming majority of parents in meeting the enforcement of uniform and ethos rules this year. &nbsp;One thorny issue in this can be the definition of formal shoes. &nbsp;We have therefore on the uniform page of the website&nbsp;provided examples of what the Academy means by these, and to help parents avoid spending money on shoes which are not suitable. &nbsp;As I always say, uniform is the physical manifestation of a student's attitude to school, so thank you in advance for working with us to ensure they get it right. &nbsp;I understand that the summer holidays is a time to relax and perhaps for parents to allow our young people to have a bit more freedom as teenagers. Please can I ask however that any summer piercings/extreme hair colourings are removed by the start of term in September. &nbsp;Can I also please draw to your attention the fact&nbsp;that caps are not to be brought into the Academy.&nbsp; Again, please&nbsp;visit our website if you have any queries about expectations, or contact your child's Head of House.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The website also has all the information you need about our new supplier, as well as a link to the finance department if you have any queries.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In terms of practical arrangements, the academy will finish for students at:</span></p>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>12.00pm on Friday 17<sup>th</sup> July</strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;<strong>OSCA re-opens for years 7 and 12 on Monday 7<sup>th</sup> September at 8.35am</strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>OSCA re-opens for all other year groups on Tuesday 8<sup>th</sup> September at 8.35am </strong></span></li>
</ul>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Other key dates next term include:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thurs 17<sup>th</sup> September &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Y11 Stepping Up Event at 6.30pm</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fri 25<sup>th</sup> September &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Y11 Paris/France trip</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; OSCA Sixth Macmillan Coffee Morning</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Mon 28<sup>th</sup> September&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Y11 Paris/France trip returns</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Target Setting Day</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tues 29<sup>th</sup> September&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Open Day and Evening</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Wed 30<sup>th</sup> September &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Open Morning</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tues 13<sup>th</sup> October&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Y9 Options Evening 4.00pm &ndash; 6.00pm</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tues 10<sup>th</sup> November&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Y11 Parents&rsquo; Evening and OSCA Sixth Open Evening</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tues 17<sup>th</sup> November&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; OSCA Presentation Evening Class of 2015</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fri 4<sup>th</sup> December&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; L4S Day 1</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Mon 5<sup>th</sup> December&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Y11 mock exams for 2 weeks</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thurs 8<sup>th</sup> December&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; OSCA Community Winter Festival</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Fri 9<sup>th</sup> December&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; OSCA Rewards visits</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">And finally, thank you once again for all of your support this academic year.&nbsp; Our thoughts now lie with years 11 and 13, and we are hoping and praying that this summer will bring our best ever set of exam results, so watch this space! &nbsp;I am so proud and pleased of everything we have achieved together this year, and look forward to celebrating even greater successes in the new academic year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Best wishes for a happy (and sunny!) summer holiday,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie McMahon<br />Principal</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Summer-2015
Wed, 15 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTProm Photos 2015http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 14 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTAlton Towers Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 13 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Sports Day Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 13 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTOxford Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 10 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Consultation
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Consultation</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">As we move towards the end of this term, we are busily preparing already for the new term in September.&nbsp; I will be writing to you soon with the end of term newsletter, confirming key dates and expectations for the new academic year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Whilst we are still feeling really proud of the &lsquo;Ofsted Good&rsquo; grading, we have already set our sights on our new target: &lsquo;Next stage outstanding&rsquo;.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">You will be aware that student behaviour was judged to be good by the inspectors, but we are now aiming to make that outstanding too.&nbsp; I wanted to consult you on your views on one potential element of this that I would like to propose.&nbsp; I realise it will be controversial for some, and readily agreed upon by others, but I need to garner the balance of views before proceeding.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">You will probably have followed on the news increasing concerns about young people&rsquo;s diets, and how this impacts on their behaviour, and in this case, learning.&nbsp; Specifically, there is mounting concern about energy and fizzy drinks. Therefore, I would like your views on whether you would support us in banning these drinks from the academy?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Below are a few excerpts on some medical views on the topic.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><em>Firstly: energy drinks:</em></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>What are the risks associated with energy drink consumption?</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>The researchers state that the health risks associated with energy drink consumption are primarily related to their caffeine content. </em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>Potential risks associated with energy drink consumption include:</em></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>caffeine overdose (which can lead to a number of symptoms, including <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Heart-palpitations/Pages/Introduction.aspx">palpitations</a>, <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Blood-pressure-(high)/Pages/Introduction.aspx">high blood pressure</a>, <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vomiting-adults/Pages/Introduction.aspx">nausea and vomiting</a>, convulsions and, in some cases, even death) </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em><a href="http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Diabetes-type2/Pages/Introduction.aspx">type 2 diabetes</a>&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;as high consumption of caffeine reduces insulin sensitivity </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>neurological and cardiovascular system effects in children and adolescents </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>sensation-seeking behavior </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>use and dependence on other harmful substances </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>poor dental health </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>somewhat ironically, given their association with sportiness,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Obesity/Pages/Introduction.aspx">obesity</a></em></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><em>Secondly: fizzy drinks:</em></strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>The government's chief obesity adviser says parents should only serve water with meals and ban fizzy drinks and juices from the dining table in order to reduce their children&rsquo;s intake of sugar. </em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>She says sugary drinks had a particularly significant impact on obesity because children and adults tended to consume them in addition to their calorie intake from food, not in place of solid foods.</em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>"Drink water, that&rsquo;s the very simple advice," she said.</em></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Below are links to several articles you may wish to read further on.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-31623771">http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-31623771</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-29212780">http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-29212780</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-26449497">http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-26449497</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/news/10926571/Ban-all-drinks-but-water-from-dinner-table-parents-told.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/news/10926571/Ban-all-drinks-but-water-from-dinner-table-parents-told.html</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/lifestyle/wellbeing/diet/9160114/The-bitter-truth-about-sugar.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/lifestyle/wellbeing/diet/9160114/The-bitter-truth-about-sugar.html</a> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Clearly, I do not wish to usurp your role as parents- you know what is best for your children. However, in order to maximise learning and achievement, I would like to recommend we ban these drinks during school hours. This ban is already common place in many schools. However, we will only introduce it here if I have parental support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please can you complete the Survey Monkey via the link that has been emailed to you.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please complete the survey&nbsp; by <strong>12pm on Monday 13<sup>th</sup> July 2015</strong>.&nbsp; I will then take a decision, based on the responses, and come back to you.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Many thanks in advance for your views and support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Consultation
Tue, 07 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Uniform
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Uniform</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parents/Carers,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Following on from our original announcement in April and our first uniform sale on Friday 3<sup>rd</sup> July, I wanted to write to remind you of the ways in which you can buy new / replacement uniform.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Our uniform provider is: Gogna School Wear &amp; Sports.&nbsp; They have a shop at:</span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;Gogna Schoolwear,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">67/69 Rookery Road,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Handworth,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Birmingham.</span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">B21 9QU</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We understand that this is a little further away than our previous supplier so we&rsquo;ve asked for a number of alternative methods by which you can purchase: </span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">You can call through an order on 0121 523 5572.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">You can shop online at: <a href="http://www.gognaschoolwear.co.uk">www.gognaschoolwear.co.uk</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">You can email them at: <a href="mailto:info@gognaschoolwear.co.uk">info@gognaschoolwear.co.uk</a></span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">All orders can be posted directly to your home for a delivery charge of &pound;3.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We understand that you may not want to travel to their shop or shop on-line.&nbsp; As a result, we have arranged for 2 further uniform sales to happen at the academy.&nbsp; These are as follows:</span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Wednesday 29<sup>th</sup> July, 3pm &ndash; 6pm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thursday 30<sup>th</sup> July, 3pm &ndash; 6pm</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A full range of uniform in all sizes will be available for your child to try on and take away on the day.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We are in the process of arranging other uniform sale days which will be advertised shortly.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you require any assistance with buying new uniform, please contact us at: <a href="mailto:finance@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">finance@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We can arrange for uniform orders to be placed with Gogna for you to collect the uniform from the academy at no cost.&nbsp; We will also be holding a small stock of blazers and ties which can be bought directly from us in case of emergency.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A number of parents have been asking why we have changed supplier.&nbsp; There are many benefits of using Gogna which I&rsquo;ve summarised below:</span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cheaper prices than previous suppliers with bulk orders being at a discount</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A better quality product</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The ability to swap unworn uniform in original sale condition (i.e. with the labels still on) for a larger / smaller size</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A commitment from Gogna to them buying in and holding significant levels of our stock &ndash; previous suppliers have not held this which has made it very difficult to secure what you need.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The possibility of having uniform delivered straight to your home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">They offer an interest free easy payment scheme where for a deposit of &pound;20, you can secure what you need and pay in instalments over the holidays with the uniform being given to you on receipt of the final payment.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">As part of moving to the new supplier, we have taken the decision to redesign our PE Kit.&nbsp; The package consists of:</span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Girls: 1 Polo shirt, 1 Sweatshirt hoody, 1 Pair shorts and 1 Pair sports socks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Boys: 1 Polo shirt, 1 Rugby top, 1 Pair shorts and 1 Pair sports socks</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Both packages are available for &pound;35.&nbsp; There is no need to move to the new PE kit straight away.&nbsp; This is only compulsory for year 7 students and we anticipate a phased introduction for all other year groups as students grow out of their existing PE kit, and you buy new ones as you would normally.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">As in previous years, we provide a small loan stock in the academy for those students that currently do not have the correct uniform.&nbsp; To help us provide this, we are happy to receive any donated uniform which no longer fits and is in good condition.&nbsp; Please hand any such items into reception</span></em>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please feel free to contact me directly at: <a href="mailto:sue.bowron@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">sue.bowron@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a> should you have any queries or call me on the above number.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sue Bowron</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Finance Director</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Uniform
Tue, 07 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTThe Launchhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 06 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMTLanguages and Sports Dayhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 23 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTOSCA's Trip to Stratfordhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=7895
Fri, 19 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTThe Launch!http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Diary/The-Launch/
Fri, 19 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTPrefect team 2015/16
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Prefect team 2015/16</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">After a rigorous selection process we are very pleased and proud to announce the senior prefect team for 2015/16.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Head Girl :</strong> Alisha Allen&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong></strong><strong><br />Head boy:</strong> Adam Foster</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Deputy Head Girl:</strong> Holly Silwood&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Deputy Head boy</strong>: Amanpreet Singh</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Senior Prefects:</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Leah Lowe</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Saisha Malhi</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sabah Akhtar</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Liam Ashcroft</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Amit Persuad</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Jaden Burrell</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Congratulations to all of our students that were a part of the process.&nbsp; Our Senior Prefects are perfect role models of the OSCA ethos of &lsquo;Excellence as Standard&rsquo;.</span></p>
<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Prefect-team-2015-16
Thu, 18 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTExam Timetable for Year 10http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Exams/
Wed, 17 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Year 10 Exam Week
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Year 10 Exam Week</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In order to fully prepare our year 10 students for the rigour and challenges of year 11 we have planned an internal exam week beginning on Monday 29th June until Friday 3rd July. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please find a copy of the Year 10 Examination Timetable <a title="Exam Timetable" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Exam_Week_Summer_2015_Year_10.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. On the whole student&rsquo;s exams will be sat in their normal lesson time. For example, students who take Geography in Option 1 will sit their exam on Monday morning when they would usually have Geography, and therefore won&rsquo;t be sitting the Tuesday and Thursday exams as these will be for other option groups. If in doubt please ask your class teacher for guidance on when your exam is. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The internal examinations are a crucial part of Year 10 students&rsquo; preparation for their final GCSE examinations and should be approached with a similar degree of seriousness and effort. In a sense they are a &ldquo;dress rehearsal&rdquo; for the real thing, but additionally, they are part of the learning process required to ensure that students achieve to their potential next year. The process of revision and mock testing helps students to improve their knowledge and skills and this can be built upon even further in year 11. Conversely, failure to revise properly for mocks is bound to have a long-term detrimental effect on performance in the final exams. All exams will be held in our exam venues and will be overseen by exam invigilators. Students are responsible for bringing the correct equipment for exams and are advised to check what they need in advance with their subject teachers.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students should approach these examinations with a determination to do their best and, therefore, prepare thoroughly. Each student&rsquo;s examination result will indicate overall attainment and illustrate how well a student is achieving compared to the targets set at the start of Key Stage 4. During the next few weeks students would be well advised to do some revision towards these examinations and therefore to act upon the advice and guidance given to them by their subject teachers in recent lessons, and the revision guide that was issued to every student at the start of key stage 4. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please support us in ensuring your child is fully prepared for these exams. As always, if you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact me via the Academy number or email myk.wagstaff@ormistonsandwell.org.uk </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Many thanks for your continued support, </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span><br />&nbsp;<br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Mr Myk Wagstaff</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Assistant Principal</span><br /><br /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Year-10-Exam-Week
Wed, 17 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTPractice Duke of Edinburgh Award Triphttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 08 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTMaths Practice Papershttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Exams/
Fri, 05 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTP.E Students enjoying the summer sun!http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 04 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTBrief Update
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Brief Update</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I just wanted to keep you informed that, as you may already have heard by now, we were the victim of the gale force winds today. Unfortunately, one of our trees blew over. Fortunately, there were several staff on regular duty, and several more quickly on the scene. The area was already cordoned off due to the new grass growing anyway, so there was no one in the immediate vicinity. We quickly moved any students nearby well away from the area, and kept the whole area out of bounds. We also immediately called a tree surgeon to check all other trees in the area. He arrived soon afterwards, and has confirmed that the tree that fell was a bit decayed, but that all the other trees in the area are safe.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Clearly, we cannot predict when natural accidents might happen, but I am pleased our emergency procedures were immediately and effectively implemented, and that no-one was hurt. Back to business as usual tomorrow therefore! Best wishes,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ms McMahon</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Brief-Update
Tue, 02 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Newsletter June 2015http://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/June_2015_newsletter_.pdf
Mon, 01 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMTHumanUtopia Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 22 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Exam Season Summer 2015
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Exam Season Summer 2015</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">We wanted to keep you appraised of our plans for exam revision for year 11 after half term.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">It continues to be a demanding week for students in terms of exams but we have looked at the timetable to see where we can ease the pressure for our students as we approach our study leave date of Friday 12</span><sup style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">th</sup><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"> June.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">For clarity we have colour coded the timetable to help students and yourselves know where they need to be during each lesson.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-size: large; background-color: #99cc00;">Green </span>&nbsp;</strong>signifies that lessons are continuing as normal and students should attend their normal &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;lessons, with the usual teacher. Attendance at these is compulsory.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-size: large; background-color: #ff00ff;">Pink &nbsp; &nbsp;</span></strong> Signifies that students for the named subject have either an exam, or an exam cram &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; revision sessions with a specialist teacher. Details of roomings are on the timetable. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Attendance at these is compulsory.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-size: large; background-color: #ffcc00;">Amber</span></strong> Signifies that some subjects will have completed and students can select whether to &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;revise in the study area we have provided in the OSCA Sixth Common Room, or work &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; from Home. Students choosing to work from home should sign in and out of the &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;academy at reception.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">In addition there is also a later start for Students on Monday 1<sup>st</sup> June. Students should be in the academy for 9.35am in maths lessons, apart from those taking GCSE History that have an exam that morning.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">We fully appreciate that all students are different, and may have preferred revision styles.&nbsp; However, the programme we have in place is typical of the majority of good schools now, and we believe is the best fit for the majority of students.&nbsp; Should your child have any specific study requirements not covered in this letter, then please do discuss this with their HOH or AHOH, as they will have the overview of what&rsquo;s still required in school.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">Many thanks in advance for your continued support at this very demanding time for year 11 students. They have given of their very best all year, and I am confident they will get through this final hurdle with flying colours.&nbsp; Please do contact us if you require any further information.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">Principal</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;"><br /></span></p>
<p><a title="Year 11 Arrangements" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/year_11_arrangements_1st_june.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;"><img title="Year 11 Arrangements" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year11_Arrangements.JPG" alt="Year11Arrangements" width="600" height="431" /></span></a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Exam-Season-Summer-2012
Thu, 21 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Study Leave 2015
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Study Leave 2015</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/ Carer,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">I wanted to give you early notice that on </span><strong>Wednesday 24<sup>th</sup> June 2015 OSCA will be closing to all students in years 7 to 10 and OSCA Sixth Students at 1.20pm</strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">. This is to accommodate our annual year 11 Leaver&rsquo;s assembly in which we celebrate the hard work and successes of our students as they complete their key stage 4 courses and exams.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">I would also like to take this opportunity to remind you that we also have two calendared </span><strong>Staff training days on Thursday 25<sup>th</sup> June and Friday 26<sup>th</sup> June</strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"> and students from all year groups will not be expected to attend on these days.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">Many thanks for your continued support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Mr Myk Wagstaff<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Progress Director KS4/KS5</span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Study-Leave-2015
Thu, 21 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTGeography Trip to Church Strettonhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=6851
Tue, 19 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTOfsted Report - OSCA is a GOOD school!
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Ofsted Report - OSCA is a GOOD school!</h1>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I am delighted to alert you that our Ofsted report has been published today. &nbsp;And the brilliant news is: it&rsquo;s official&hellip;OSCA is a good school! &nbsp;I am absolutely delighted that all of our hard work and determination to raise standards have been recognised in this excellent judgement. The full report is available for you to read in the the link below</span><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">. &nbsp;However, I just wanted to pick out some of the highlights for me.&nbsp; These include:</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Behaviour:</strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The behaviour of students is good, both in lessons and during social times</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students are universally polite and helpful.&nbsp; They mirror the courtesy and respect that staff show to them. &nbsp;Their conduct at social times is orderly and responsible and they respect the academy&rsquo;s facilities</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students feel safe and the academy provides a safe and secure environment in which they can work. &nbsp;Their positive attitudes to learning and good relationships mean that they participate well in lessons</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students explained to inspectors that the academy has helped them to develop mature attitudes and take responsibility for their own actions.&nbsp; They understand how the clear rules in the academy&hellip; prepare them for the rule of law in adult life</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The academy uses lessons, assemblies and form time well to develop students&rsquo; spiritual, moral, social and cultural understanding. &nbsp;As a result, they are well prepared for life in modern Britain</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance is now above average</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The academy does not tolerate any form of discrimination. &nbsp;As a result, students show good levels of respect for each other</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students say they feel very safe in the academy.</span></li>
</ul>
<p class="Default">&nbsp;</p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Teaching and learning:</strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The quality of teaching is good</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Teachers&rsquo; good management of lessons ensures learning is effective and that students make good progress</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Teachers plan carefully and ensure that the work challenges students to make good gains in their knowledge, understanding and skills</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Rigorous checks on students&rsquo; learning, has rapidly improved the quality of teaching. &nbsp;As a result, students&rsquo; progress has accelerated and is now good</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students gain skills, knowledge and understanding through challenging activities that engage their interest</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Activities engage students&rsquo; interest well and they participate readily, putting forward their own views and listening to other students&rsquo; contributions</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students, including those in the sixth form, approach their learning with commitment.&nbsp; They collaborate effectively in lessons</span></li>
</ul>
<p class="Default"><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Leadership: </strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Leadership and management are good</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Senior leaders set high expectations for behaviour and for academic attainment</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Leaders have made considerable improvements since the last inspection in behaviour and teaching</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">High expectations of students&rsquo; behaviour and the quality of their work have generated a climate in which students are enthusiastic learners</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Leaders have very successfully worked to improve behaviour, relationships between students and the quality of teaching</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">They have created an academy in which everyone values learning and celebrates success</span></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Of course, we agree we are not yet outstanding - but we will be soon! &nbsp;We agree that we need to iron out a few inconsistencies in some areas, and to continue to improve the 6<sup>th</sup> form - but these actions are already well underway. &nbsp;Furthermore, the progress we have made since the last inspection, just 2 years ago, is phenomenal. &nbsp;I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge &lsquo;well done&rsquo; to all of our staff and students, and a massive &lsquo;thank you&rsquo; to you as parents and guardians. &nbsp;It is this partnership which has enabled us to make rapid and significant improvements in every area of school life.&nbsp; It is also this partnership which will ensure we keep raising the bar in terms of expectations and aspirations, as we move OSCA swiftly onto the next stage of its journey.&nbsp; Outstanding, here we come!<br /><br /></span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Principal</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a title="OFSTED Report 2015" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/RV5_Final_462571.pdf" target="_blank">OFSTED Report</a><br /></span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Note:&nbsp; If you would like a paper copy of the letter, please ask your child to let Reception know, and we will provide this for you.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Ofsted-Report-OSCA-is-a-GOOD-school
Thu, 14 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTTechnology and Dance Class Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 13 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Summer Exams 2015
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Summer Exams 2015</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We wanted to keep you appraised of our plans for exam revision for year 11 next week, and to reiterate the rationale for keeping students in lessons as long as practicable to maximise achievement. I appreciate that in responding to individual requests this week there has been some confusion, and so just wanted to clarify the situation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">It&rsquo;s been a very demanding week of exams this week - unusually so for so early in the season.&nbsp; The fact that we have raised the bar and now have many more students taking more rigorous GCSE exams is the right thing to do in terms of ensuring our students are able to compete with the best nationally.&nbsp; However, it has thrown up some challenges of course as the demands on them increase during exam season.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I have had lots of conversations with students this week, and explained the importance of them still being in lessons where they haven&rsquo;t yet sat the exam.&nbsp; This is to ensure any last minute content, comprehension, coursework and exam technique updates can be covered by the specialist teacher.&nbsp; I understand they face competing demands with exams which are more imminent, and keeping on top of subjects which are not quite so imminent.&nbsp; I do understand the pressures on them, but can only repeat that staying in lessons for as long as possible is their best option in our view.&nbsp; To supplement this, we have also organised &lsquo;exam cram&rsquo; sessions on the day of exams, for those last minute reminders, tips and final points of revision.&nbsp; Please see attached the draft programme for next week. &nbsp; Additionally, as some subjects finish their final exam this week and next, we will provide a staffed, quiet revision area in the OSCA 6<sup>th</sup> block, where students can revise at their own pace for upcoming exams.&nbsp; We will send out a programme for the following week before half term.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We fully appreciate that all students are different, and may have preferred revision styles.&nbsp; However, the programme we have in place is typical of the majority of good schools now, and we believe is the best fit for the majority of students.&nbsp; Should your child have any specific study requirements not covered in this letter, then please do discuss this with their HOH or AHOH, as they will have the overview of what&rsquo;s still required in school.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Many thanks in advance for your continued support at this very demanding time for year 11 students. They have given of their very best all year, and I am confident they will get through this final hurdle with flying colours.&nbsp; Please do contact us if you require any further information.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Principal</span></p>
<p><a title="Year 11 Arrangements" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Document2_2.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img title="Year 11 Arrangements" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/curriculum/Exam_Timetable.JPG" alt="ExamTimetable" width="600" height="356" /></span></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Exam-Season-Summer-2015
Wed, 13 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTGeography trip to Cheddar Gorge Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 07 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTExam Information
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Exam Information</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">To fully support our Year 11 students with their first exam on Tuesday 5th May, we are allowing them a later start of 9.35am on that day.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Therefore they should go straight to English period 2. Arrangements will be made for leaving lessons early to attend the exam. Details of these arrangements will be given to students on Tuesday.</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Exam-Information
Fri, 01 May 2015 00:00:00 GMTNew Uniform Supplier
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">New Uniform Supplier</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">OSCA's New uniform supplier: </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">GOGNA School Wear &amp; Sports. Click <a title="Gogna" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/School_Uniform.pdf" target="_blank">here</a> to download the </span><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">brochure</span>.<br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Click on the picture bellow to visit the GOGNA School Wear &amp; Sports website</span>.</p>
<p><a title="http://gognaschoolwear.co.uk/" href="http://gognaschoolwear.co.uk/"><img title="Gogna" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/curriculum/gogna.JPG" alt="Gogna" width="600" height="456" /></a></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/School-Uniform
Wed, 29 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 Exam Leave
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 11 Exam Leave</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/ Carer,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We are fast approaching the GCSE examinations for 2015 which begin in the main on Tuesday 5<sup>th</sup> May. I am writing to you today to explain the examination leave arrangements for Year 11.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">As you will be aware from your child and through meetings with their teachers, the GCSE examinations over recent years have become more challenging both in their content and the changing grade boundaries that have risen. This means students have to perform better in exams to reach their expected grades than in previous years.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In order to help your child to reach their potential OSCA is changing its approach to study leave. In previous years Year 11 would leave shortly before their first exam and return to school only for examinations. This year we want to make use of some of the crucial time during the examinations, when students have no exams.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students will remain in school until Friday 12<sup>th</sup> June, when the bulk of their exams are completed. During this time we will of course offer the highest support to our students, and ensure lesson time is focussed on revision and study for each exam. Once exams are completed in a particular subject we will use the lesson time to focus on other subjects. So for example, once English language exams are completed students will use English lesson time to prepare for English Literature and Film Studies exams later in the Month. After this date students need only attend the Academy to sit external exams.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We will also be providing quiet study spaces for students before exams, and some timings of the day will become more flexible to allow students to prepare fully.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We will hold our Leavers Assembly on Wednesday 24th June 2pm. &nbsp;I do hope that you are able to join us in celebrating the many accomplishments of our students over the last 5 years here at OSCA.&nbsp; Details of this event will follow nearer the day.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Our students are a credit to the academy, and to you as parents. We wish them the very best of luck, and hope they achieve the great results they deserve in August.</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p class="Default"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Mr Myk Wagstaff</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Progress Director KS4/KS5</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-11-Exam-Leave
Fri, 17 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMTOfsted Inspection Letter
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Ofsted Inspection Letter</h1>
<div class="WordSection1">
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img style="float: right;" title="Ofsted" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/curriculum/Ofsted.jpg" alt="Ofsted" width="138" height="116" /></span></p>
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img style="float: left;" title="OfstedAd" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/curriculum/ofsted_ad.JPG" alt="OfstedAs" width="380" height="84" /></span></p>
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="Unnumberedparagraph"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear parent or carer</span></p>
<p align="left"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Inspection of Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy by Ofsted&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></strong></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We have just told your child&rsquo;s school that we will inspect it on <strong>15&ndash;16 April 2015</strong>. The lead inspector will be <strong>Martin Spoor.</strong> We are writing to you because we would like to know what you think about the school. Please take a few minutes to read the leaflet which can be downloaded <a title="School Inspections - a guide to parents" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/School_inspections_-_a_guide_for_parents_JAN15.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. It explains why we inspect schools, and what happens during an inspection.</span></p>
<p align="left"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Your views about the school are important to us</span></strong></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you are a registered parent or carer of a pupil at the school (including pupils on sick leave or who are temporarily excluded), you can tell us your views about the school by completing Ofsted's online survey, Parent View, at: <a href="http://www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/">www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk</a>.</span></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Parent View asks for your opinion on 12 aspects of your child&rsquo;s school, including the progress made by your child, the quality of teaching, dealing with bullying and poor behaviour. The inspectors will use the online survey responses when inspecting your child&rsquo;s school. Written comments can also be sent to the school in a sealed envelope, marked confidential and addressed to the inspection team.</span></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">To register your views, you will need to provide your email address, which will be held securely. It will not be used for any purpose other than providing access to the online survey. Neither schools nor Ofsted will have access to any email addresses.</span></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please complete the online survey by <strong>11am</strong> on <strong>15 April 2015 </strong>as this will give the inspection team more time to consider your views. However, we will consider all online responses that are completed during the inspection.</span></p>
<p align="left"><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Speaking to an inspector</span></strong></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you are unable to complete the online survey, it may be possible to speak to an inspector during the inspection, for instance at the start of the school day, or to pass on messages to the inspectors if you are unable to speak to them in person. Inspection administrators will be happy to make the necessary arrangements. If concerns are raised about child protection, we may have to pass the information we receive to social services or the police. You can contact the administrators on <strong>0121 679 9153</strong>. Inspectors will be pleased to receive your comments, but cannot deal with complaints about individual pupils or settle disputes between you and the school.</span></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete the online survey.</span></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Naik Sandhu</strong></span></p>
<p align="left">&nbsp;</p>
<p align="left">&nbsp;<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img style="float: left;" title="icon" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/curriculum/s.jpg" alt="icon" width="94" height="94" />As well as completing the survey, you can use Ofsted's online survey, Parent View, at any time during the school year to give Ofsted your opinion of your child&rsquo;s school. You can also use Parent View to see survey results for schools across England. Visit <a href="http://www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/">www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk</a>, or look for the link on the main Ofsted website: <a href="http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/">www.ofsted.gov.uk</a></span></p>
<p align="left">&nbsp;</p>
</div>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Ofsted-April-2015
Tue, 14 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMTSchool Inspections - A Guide for Parentshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/School_inspections_-_a_guide_for_parents_JAN15.pdf
Tue, 14 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMTOSCA Ofsted Parent Letter
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OSCA Ofsted Parent Letter</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong></strong>Dear Parent or Carer</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Re: &nbsp; Inspection of Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy by Ofsted</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We have just been informed that Ofsted will inspect our academy on Wednesday 15<sup>th</sup> and Thursday 16<sup>th</sup> April 2015.&nbsp; The lead inspector will be <strong>Mr Martin Spoor</strong>.&nbsp; As part of this process, Ofsted would like to know what you think about our academy.&nbsp; Please take a few minutes to read the leaflet accompanying this letter explaining why they inspect schools, and what happens during an inspection, as well as instructions on how to complete the parent view questionnaire.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Many thanks in advance for your continued support and I will let you know the outcomes as soon as the report is available.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Marie McMahon</strong><strong></strong><strong><br />Principal</strong></span><strong></strong></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Ofsted-Parent-Letter
Tue, 14 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMTDrayton Manor Reward Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 13 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMTBattlefield Memorial Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Thu, 26 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 8 Football Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 8 Football Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Our Year 8 Football team won again tonight in their latest Sandwell Schools Cup match. This means that they are now in the Quarter Finals after Easter! They beat Bristnall Hall 2 - 0.</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The attitude and behaviour of the students taking part was excellent.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">James Halford</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Rico Cheed</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Daniel Collins</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ebenezer Chatwee</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Josh Brown</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Robert Mason</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Owen Powell</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thomas Bailey</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Bradley Birch</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Manvir Duhra</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Titus Obuadum</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Akaash Sarfraz</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cameron Russell</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Kian Wright</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-8-Football-Results
Wed, 25 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - March 2015
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - March 2015</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">As we approach the end of another highly successful term here at OSCA, I am writing to share a few of the highlights of the term with you, and to confirm end of term arrangements.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I am delighted to start by sharing with you the fantastic news that we are full and over subscribed for the second consecutive year!&nbsp; You may recall me telling you last year that this had never happened in either the academy, or the predecessor school&rsquo;s history, so I am delighted it is &lsquo;the new norm&rsquo; here at OSCA.&nbsp; This is a reflection of course of all the superb work we have been doing on raising standards here over the past two years.&nbsp; It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students - all with your superb support of course!&nbsp; As standards have risen, so too our reputation has justly improved, and our aspirations continue to rise too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In specific terms, our monitoring shows that the quality of teaching continues to improve every term.&nbsp; The overwhelming majority of students now display a thirst for knowledge, as is evidenced for instance by the seismic shift in attendance, which is now well above the national average at OSCA.&nbsp; Current attendance is 97.3%, up almost 3% on two years ago, making us the highest attaining school in the whole of the borough once again, and indeed in the whole of the country!&nbsp; Punctuality has improved by 33% this year alone. There has been a significant reduction in the number of behaviour points allocated, it is now 25% lower than for the same period last year.&nbsp; This is&nbsp;despite having more categories that attract behaviour points, a higher number of students on roll, and a general lowering to &lsquo;zero tolerance&rsquo; of disruptive behaviour. Indeed, I was delighted that a record number of students (543) were eligible for the end of term reward trip, and we are sending 7 coaches to Drayton manor on Friday!&nbsp; A well-deserved end of term treat for our hard working students.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I have been especially proud this year of the maturity and dedication of our year 11 students, who, alongside the staff, have been working like Trojans to prepare for their upcoming exams.&nbsp; We are quietly very confident that this is going to be our best set of results yet, and will leave no stone unturned in our quest to achieve this. &nbsp;Our OSCA sixth students have similarly flourished under our new expectations, and the year 13 look set to improve on our previous best too.&nbsp; Many already have their university applications in, and they too will be giving their all&nbsp;in the coming months to ensure they move on to the next phase of their education and training.&nbsp; 75% of them have already had offers for the university of their choice!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Alongside all our hard work, we&rsquo;ve managed to have some fun too of course!&nbsp; Please see the link below for our newsletter, which highlights just a few of the many enrichment activities students have taken part in too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a title="Newsletter - March 2015" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/March_Newsletter_2015.pdf" target="_blank">Newsletter - March 2015</a><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">And finally, delighted though we are with how far we have come, and all the improvements we have made, we will continue to raise the bar even further next term and beyond.&nbsp; Thank you once again for the excellent support you provide as us as parents and guardians, I know you know how important that partnership is for success.&nbsp; I hope you all have a great Easter, and a happy and relaxing few weeks.&nbsp; I look forward to welcoming all the students back on Tuesday&nbsp;14<sup>th</sup> April, refreshed and ready for the rigours of next term!</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Best wishes</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-March-2015
Tue, 24 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - March 2015http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/March_Newsletter_2015.pdf
Tue, 24 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTWoman in Black Trip to London Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 20 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTSolar Eclipse at OSCAhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 20 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTSummer 2015 Exam Timetablehttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Exams/
Fri, 20 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTLandscaping Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 11 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTL4S Day Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 09 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTNew year 7 full and oversubscribed!
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<h1 class="HTXT">New Year 7 full and oversubscribed!</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Congratulations to all the Year 6 students who have secured a place at OSCA. We look forward to welcoming you all on Wednesday 1 July for Transition Day.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We are delighted to say that OSCA is full and oversubscribed for the second consecutive year, so well done on securing your place here! You will be joining us at a really exciting time, as our &pound;9 million new building will be completely finished. We can&rsquo;t wait to meet you all and welcome you to &lsquo;Team OSCA&rsquo;!</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ms McMahon</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Transition-Day-OSCA
Tue, 03 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMTHairspray hits the press!
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Hairspray hits the press!</h1>
<p><img title="Hairspray Press 1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/FullSizeRender.jpg" alt="Hairspray Press" width="474" height="600" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Hairspray-hits-the-press
Mon, 23 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMTSaturday Detentionshttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Saturday_Detentions.pdf
Mon, 23 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMTRamp Up Red photoshttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 13 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter February 2015http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/for_the_web_February_16_Newsletter.pdf
Thu, 12 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMTNew Multi-Gymhttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 27 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMTEdgmond Hall Triphttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 23 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 History trip to Warwick Castle Photoshttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 21 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMTHairspray Tickets now Available
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Hairspray Tickets now Available</h1>
<p><span class="userContent" style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">We are very pleased to announce that tickets are now available for Hairspray 2015!<br /> <br /> They are &pound;3 each and available from PAPA at breaks and lunchtimes. <br /> <br /> We have around 70 students involved in the show that have been rehearsing hard since September, and will continue to rehearse over the coming weeks, and for the majority of the Half term holiday.</span></p>
<p><span class="userContent" style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img title="Hairspray" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Hairspray_poster.jpg" alt="Hairspray Poster" width="424" height="600" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Hairspray-Tickets-now-Available
Tue, 13 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMTYear 9 Options Booklet
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<h1 class="HTXT">Year 9 Options Booklet</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please download the Year 9 Opitions Booklet <a title="Year 9 Options Booklet" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Options_Booklet_2015...pdf" target="_blank">here</a></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-9-Options-Booklet
Mon, 12 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMTUnder 14 Basketball Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Under 14 Basketball Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The current league table for the sandwell Under14 girls basketball league. As it stands this is the best result we as an academy have ever had!</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<table style="width: 485px; border-color: #000000; border-width: 0px; border-style: solid;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><colgroup><col width="133" /><col span="4" width="88" /></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="133">
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Team</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td width="88">
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Won</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td width="88">
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Lost</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td width="88">
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>+/-</strong></span></p>
</td>
<td width="88">
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Points</strong></span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">George Salter</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">5</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">0</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">232</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">15</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sandwell Ormiston</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">-46</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">9</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Shireland</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">-32</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">8</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sandwell Ac</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">-60</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">6</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Bristnall</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">0</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Wodensborough</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">-54</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">5</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Wood Green</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">0</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">-40</span></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="right"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1</span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Under-14-Basketball-Results-2
Fri, 09 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter December 2014http://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/December_15_Newsletter_2.pdf
Wed, 17 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Christmas 2014
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Christmas 2014</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">December 2014</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I hope you are all well, and are enjoying any preparations for the holidays ahead!&nbsp; As we approach the end of another busy, highly successful term, I just wanted to keep you up to date on recent events, and to confirm arrangements for the end of term and the start of the New Year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Clearly, maximising achievements in exams remains our number 1 priority.&nbsp; Year 11 have had a busy few weeks of mock exams, helping them to prepare for 'the real thing' and we have been delighted with their maturity and motivation to do well. &nbsp;As you know, OSCA achieved its best GCSE results ever in the summer, and we have raised the bar even higher for 2015, so the pressure is on! &nbsp;We look forward to celebrating some excellent mock results with year 11 over the coming weeks.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The highlight of the term for me has been the very encouraging OAT inspection report we received recently.&nbsp; The full report is on the website <a title="Newsletter December 2014" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/December_15_Newsletter_2.pdf">(</a><a title="OSCA OAT Review" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/OSCA_OAT_Review.pdf" target="_blank">http://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/OSCA_OAT_Review.pdf</a> ), but I wanted to pick out a few of the findings I am most proud of for you:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy is a rapidly improving academy.&nbsp; It has made significant strides since its previous inspection because of good leadership and management</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students have developed a sense of ownership and pride in the academy</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">They now wear their uniform with pride because the reputation of the academy in the local community has improved</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Behaviour in lessons and around the academy is good.&nbsp; Pupils feel safe and secure.&nbsp; They say that staff have a genuine interest in their wellbeing</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students say that&hellip; staff now really care about them.&nbsp; Relationships are very good indeed with students trying their best in lessons</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance rates are high&nbsp;</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The sixth form is rapidly improving.&nbsp; An improved ethos and sense of identity means that students value the sixth form</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The report left us of course with some areas for improvement, and the good news is that these are areas we had already identified, and will continue to work on.&nbsp; I am delighted the report has recognised how far we have come as an academy since the last inspection, and am immensely proud of all my students and staff, for their superb hard work.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Alongside our work on preparing students to get the best possible exam results,&nbsp;you know that I am equally passionate that learning should also be fun.&nbsp; We certainly have had some fantastic enrichment activities over the last half term to complement all the work we are doing improving teaching and learning and raising standards.&nbsp; Full details of these are available on the website, and in particular in our end of term newsletter <a title="Newsletter December 2014" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/December_15_Newsletter_2.pdf" target="_blank">(http://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/December_15_Newsletter_2.pdf)</a>. This also includes key dates for your diary. The academy re-opens for students at <strong>8.30 am on Tuesday 6th January</strong>, for the spring term 2015.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">As a reward for the further&nbsp;improved standards of uniform, behaviour and attendance across the Academy this term, students (and staff!) will be allowed to wear&nbsp;non-uniform on Friday 19<sup>th</sup> December.&nbsp; This will of course be optional, but we would ask students who choose to come in non-uniform&nbsp;it to donate &pound;1 to Shelter - the homeless charity, to help those less fortunate than ourselves over the Christmas period.&nbsp; The academy will finish on Friday at 12pm for all students.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Please note that lessons will continue as normal this week, so it is really important all students have 100% attendance even in the run up to Christmas, so they do not miss out on any learning. Please note that attendance on Friday too is compulsory, and essential if students wish to be eligible for next term's reward trip.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">And finally, thank you once again for your support and partnership this term.&nbsp; Attendance is up even further, behaviour referrals are down again, ethos and the standard of uniform for the overwhelming majority are excellent, and the quality of teaching and learning is rising all the time.&nbsp; And, of course, this has all&nbsp;been validated by our OAT inspection. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">It is really encouraging that all of these improvements continue to&nbsp;have an extremely positive impact on OSCA's reputation and popularity.&nbsp; As you know, we are already full and over-subscribed with a waiting list in year 7.&nbsp; We&nbsp;now know from the local authority that we are likely to find this replicated in the new year 7 in 2015. &nbsp;Of course, we only have 180 places available, so competition for places is likely to be fierce!&nbsp; A great accolade for all the fantastic work we are doing here in our determination to make OSCA a beacon of excellence in Sandwell and beyond.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I look forward to continuing to work with you in the New Year, and to the fruits of all our labour bringing another set of record results in the summer.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">With best wishes for a peaceful and enjoyable holiday, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Principal</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Christmas-2014
Wed, 17 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMTIce Skating Reward Triphttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 15 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMTInter House Competitions Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Inter House Competitions Results</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Languages Day competition:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1st place - Shakespeare (9) -&nbsp; 4 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2nd place - Picasso (5) -&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;3 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3rd place - Dahl (4) -&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;2 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4th place - Da Vinci (3) -&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;1 Point&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br /><br /></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Year 7 Boy's Football run by Sports Council:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1st - Picasso - 4 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2nd - Dahl - 3 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3rd - Shakespeare - 2 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4th - DaVinci - 1 Point</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Year 7 girls Benchball run by Sports Council:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1st &ndash; Shakespeare -&nbsp; 4 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2nd &ndash; Davinci 3 - 3 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3rd &ndash; Picasso 2 -&nbsp; 2 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4th &ndash; Dahl&nbsp; -&nbsp; 1 Points</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yr 11 Football:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1<sup>st</sup>&nbsp; - Dahl -&nbsp; 4 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2<sup>nd</sup> - Shakespeare - 3 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3rd - DaVinci -&nbsp; 2 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup>&nbsp; - Picasso - 1 Point</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Christmas Card Competition:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1<sup>st</sup> - Shakespeare - 4 Points,<br />2<sup>nd</sup>&nbsp; - Picasso - 3 Points,<br />3<sup>rd</sup> - DaVinci - 2 Points,<br />4<sup>th</sup> - Dahl - 1 Point</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Year 10 Football:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1<sup>st&nbsp; - </sup>Shakespeare - 4 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2<sup>nd</sup> - Dahl - 3 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3<sup>rd</sup> - Picasso - 2 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup> - DaVinci - Point </span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Year 9 Football:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1<sup>st - </sup>Shakespeare - 4 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2<sup>nd</sup> - Dahl - 3 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3<sup>rd</sup> - DaVinci - 2 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup> - Picasso - 1 Point</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Year 8 Football:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1<sup>st -&nbsp; </sup>DaVinci - 4 Points</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2<sup>nd</sup> - Picasso - 3 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3<sup>rd</sup> - Shakespeare - 2 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup> -&nbsp; DaVinci - 1 Point</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Year 7 Football:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1<sup>st - </sup>Picasso - 4 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2<sup>nd</sup> - Shakespeare - 3 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3<sup>rd</sup> - DaVinci - 2 Points,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup> - Dahl - 1 Point</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">OVERALL HOUSE TOTALS SO FAR:</span></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Picasso - 23</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Shakespeare - 30</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dahl - 19</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Da Vinci - 18</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Inter-House-Competitions-Results
Wed, 10 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMTYear 7 Class Band
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 7 Class Band</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The OSCA Y7 Class Band are feeling festive!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">After only 8 weeks with their instruments they have been able to put together a performance of Jingle Bells and wanted to share it with our OSCA community.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Merry Christmas!!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Xah7J3u5fUM" width="600" height="350" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-7-Class-Band
Tue, 09 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMTYear 8 House Football Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 8 House Football Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The result from Yr 8 house football was :</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1st - Da Vinci</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2nd - Picasso</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3rd - Shakespeare</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4th - Dahl</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Many thanks to Mr Lovatt for his help running it. The pupils enjoyed themselves and tried really hard for their respective house teams. Despite the cold weather we had a great turnout. A big well done to Da Vinci!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img title="House Football 1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/Year8HouseFB_1.JPG" alt="House Football8" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img title="House Football 2" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/Year8HouseFB_2.JPG" alt="House Football8" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img title="House Football 3" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/Year8HouseFB_3.JPG" alt="House Football8" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img title="House Football 4" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/Year8HouseFB_4.JPG" alt="House Football8" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-8-House-Football-Results
Wed, 03 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMTPresentation Evening Photoshttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 02 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Yr 11 Mock Examshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/Ltr_to_parents_re_y11_mocks_dec_14.pdf
Fri, 28 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTHouse Football Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">House Football Results</h1>
<p><span class="userContent" style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The latest house football results are as follows :<br /> 1. Shakespeare<br /> 2. Dahl<br /> 3. Da Vinci<br /> 4. Picasso<br /> Many thanks again to Mr Laird and Mr Lovatt for their help running it. The pupils played really well and clearly enjoyed themselves. Big turnouts for Dahl and Da Vinci teams meant that Shakespeare and Picasso teams played games with fewer players. All pupils engaged and supported each other once again!</span></p>
<p><span class="userContent"><img title="House Football 1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/HouseFB26th_1.JPG" alt="House Fooball" width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="userContent"><br /></span></p>
<p><span class="userContent"><img title="House Football 2" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/HouseFB26th_2.JPG" alt="House Football " width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="userContent"><br /></span></p>
<p><span class="userContent"><img title="House Football 3" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/HouseFB26th_3.JPG" alt="House Football " width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
<p><span class="userContent"><br /></span></p>
<p><span class="userContent"><img title="House Football 4" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/HouseFB26th_4.JPG" alt="House Football " width="600" height="450" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/House-Football-Results
Wed, 26 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTExam Timetable for Dec - Janhttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Exams/
Mon, 24 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTYear 10 House Football Competition
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 10 House Football Competition</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Year 10 boys house football competition is now complete. Many thanks again to Mr Laird and Mr Lovatt for their help running it. It was pleasing to see so many pupils taking part. There was a very positive atmosphere, with pupils encouraging each other and clearly enjoying themselves. The final standings were:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">1. Shakespeare</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2. Dahl</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3. Picasso</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4. Da Vinci</span></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year10HF_1.JPG" alt="yr101" width="600" height="450" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year10HF_2.JPG" alt="Year102" width="600" height="450" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year10HF_3.JPG" alt="Year103" width="600" height="450" /></p>
<p><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Year10HF_4.JPG" alt="Year104" width="600" height="450" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-10-House-Football-Competition
Wed, 19 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMT6th Form Skills Showhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=4522
Fri, 14 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTStem Club Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 11 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTYear 11 House Football
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 11 House Football</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">On Monday 10th November the Year 11 House Football Competition took place. All pupils behaved well, tried hard and enjoyed themselves. The final standings were as follows:&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1st - Dahl&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">2nd - Shakespeare&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">3rd - DaVinci&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">4th - Picasso&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pics of the teams a<span class="text_exposed_show">re below. You may notice that a few students from other houses helped to make Picasso's team up due to their low numbers. It was nice to see the pupils being prepared to do this in order to make it competitive!</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img title="Football Image 1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image1.JPG" alt="Image1" width="600" height="450" /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img title="Football Image 2" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image2.JPG" alt="Image2" width="600" height="450" /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image3.JPG" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show"><img src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/image4.JPG" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-11-House-Football
Tue, 11 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTHarry Potter Trip Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Mon, 10 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTUnder 14 Basketball
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Under 14 Basketball</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The Under 14 girls Basketball team played their 3rd fixture against Shirelands last night. Even though the game was extremely competitive the girls succumbed to a 28 - 14 loss. This is the 1st defeat of the season and even though the girls were extremely disappointed they can be proud of the fact that they didn't give up and even though the game didn't go their way they came out with valuable playing experience which they can take onto the next fixture. Player of the game was A Walters and points were evenly distributed between the players within the team. It is also a credit to the team that a squad of 10 players were available for the fixture last night.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">A Walters<br />K McClean<br />L Spooner<br />S Cox<br />G Tolley<br />N Shepherd<br />O Davies<br />S Green<br />R Foster</span></p>
<p><span><br /></span></p>
<p><span><img title="BBUnder14" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/DSCF2722.JPG" alt="Under14BB" width="600" /></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Under-14-Basketball
Fri, 07 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTYear 7 Girls Benchball House Tournament
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Year 7 Girls Benchball House Tournament</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">On Friday 24th October the sports council ran a Year 7 girls benchball house tournament which saw a very good attendance of over 50 Year 7 girls. The games were fiercely competed and highly competitive as all houses wanted to win. Games were very close and all teams won at least one game. the final results for this tournament were;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">1st - Shakespeare<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">2nd - Davinci<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">3rd - Picasso<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">4th - Dahl</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">The tournament ran extremely smoothly and was well organized by the sports council members involved. please thank the following students for the time they gave up in running the event.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Alisha Allen<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Beth Griffiths<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Megan Hawley<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Simran Gill<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Simran Singh<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Samranjeet Kaur<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Kiran Bhogal</span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Year-7-Girls-Benchball-House-Tournament
Fri, 07 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTStem Club Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 05 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTNovember Exam Timetablehttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Exams/
Mon, 03 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMTYear 7 House Footballhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 24 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTUnder 14 Basketball Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Under 14 Basketball Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Last night the under 14 girls played their 2nd league fixture against Sandwell Academy and have managed to maintain their 100% unbeaten start to the league season running out winners by 26 - 20.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The match was a hard fought fixture against an opposition that we have never beaten but the girls showed the same spirit and competitiveness that helped them to beat Bristnall Hall on Tuesday. Player of the match Alicia Walters was given extra recognition for her fantastic rebound play in both attack and defensive zones. The fast passing and the movement within the game from the team was so strong that the opposition struggle to respond with our fast breaks. All girls displayed excellent behavior and really demonstrated the attitude and standards we expect at OSCA.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Our under 16 team also played a development fixture last night against Sandwell Academy. They had a diminished side and so thankfully were joined by Nicole Shepherd and Georgia Tolley who displayed skills and strengths equal to the girls slightly older than them.&nbsp;Aline Ghaddar was nomintated player of the game for her speed and skills whilst dribbling and shooting.&nbsp;Unfortunately due to the strength of the opposition our u16 lost comprehensively, however take the experience to help them develop skills for their next fixture.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Rachel Foster - Year 8</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Alicia Walters - Year 9 / U14 Team Captain</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Leah Spooner - Year 9</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Kara Mclean - Year 9</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sam cox - Year 9</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Nicole Shepherd - Year 9~</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Georgia Tolley - Year 9</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Megan Hall - Year 9</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Aline Ghaddar - Year 10</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Nicole Saleem - Year 10</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Patrysja Rybska - Year 10</span></p>
</div>http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Under-14-Basketball-Results-1
Fri, 24 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTSamosa and Cake Salehttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=4481
Fri, 24 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTBoys Football Half Term Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Boys Football Half Term Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">This page is awaiting content</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Here are the results from all years boys football teams this half term. As you can see we have managed to play a number of fixtures already! Many thanks to Paul Laird and Malcolm Lovatt for their help with running these teams. As always the attitude and behaviour of our pupils has been exemplary. We often get told how great our lads are from opposition staff! As you can see from Yr 9 results, Paul Laird is leading the way with results :</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Yr 7's</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">St Michaels (A) Lost 4 - 1</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Perryfields (A) Lost 7 - 1</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ormiston Forge (A) Draw 1 - 1</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Bristnall Hall (A) Lost 4 - 2</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Yr 8's</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">St Michaels (A) Lost 9 - 0</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Shirelands (a) Won 7 - 1</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Perryfields (A) Won 3 - 2</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ormiston (H) Won 3 - 2</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Yr 9s </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">St Mich (H) Won 2 - 1</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thomas Telford (H) Lost 6 - 0</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Shirelands (A) Won 6 - 0</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Perryfields (H) Won 11 - 0</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ormiston Forge (A) Won 6 - 0</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Bristnall Hall (H) Won 10 - 0</span></p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yr 10's</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">St Michaels (A) Lost 3 - 1</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ormiston Forge (A) Lost 5 - 3</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Yr 11</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ormiston Forge (A) Won 4 - 2</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Oldbury College of Sport (Cup) A Lost 3 - 1</span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Boys-Football-Half-Term-Results
Fri, 24 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTUnder 14 Basketball Results
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Under 14 Basketball Results</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Last night our under 14 girls played their first league fixture of the season against Bristnall Hall ..... AND WON!!!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The result was 18 - 8 and the girls played their hearts out. They showed extreme commitment and a sense of wanting to win and were 10 - 4 up in the 1st quarter. Bristnall Hall came back stronger in the 2nd quarter but defensively OSCA held back the challenge. Our quick counter attacks from Georgia Tolley and Leah Spooner were supported by some excellent defence and steal play from Samantha Cox and team captain Alicia Walters. OSCA continued to work hard and eventually Bristnall Hall succumbed to the strength of team OSCA. All of the girls played extremely well with special mentions to Rachel Foster of year 8, who even though playing with girls a year older showed her strengths by making some fantastic choice decisions showing real composure when on the ball. Also to Megan Hall who finished the game as our top points scorer with 6 points and to Georgia Tolley who was voted opposition player of the match for her speed and counter attacking runs made.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Alicia Walters - Team Captain</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Kara McClean - Co Captain<br /></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Leah Spooner - Co Captain<br /></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Oria Davies<br /></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Sam Cox<br /></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Rachel Foster<br /></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Georgia Tolley<br /></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Megan Hall<br /></span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Nicole Shepherd</span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Under-14-Basketball-Results
Wed, 22 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTNewsletter - Autumn 2014
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Newsletter - Autumn 2014</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Click on the picutre bellow to download the news letter.</span></p>
<p><a title="Newsletter 2014" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/October_14_Newsletter.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="Newsletter 2014" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/nl2014.PNG" alt="News letter 2014" width="400" height="545" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Newsletter-Autumn-2014
Tue, 21 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTLetter to Parents - Autumn 2014
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter to Parents - Autumn 2014</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">October 2014</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">I wanted to update you on events and progress at OSCA as this half term draws to a close.&nbsp; And what a half term it&rsquo;s been!&nbsp; As you know, it was an &lsquo;interesting&rsquo; start to term with all the complications of the building work and complete changeover of ICT and phone systems.&nbsp; It&rsquo;s fair to say these have thrown up a few trials and tribulations for us all!&nbsp; I would like to thank parents and guardians for their support and understanding during these challenging few months.&nbsp; Although there is still a lot of snagging to do, as you would expect on such a major project, the great news is that it has all been worth it, and the new facilities are superb.&nbsp; We are now moving towards the demolition of the old blocks and landscaping.&nbsp; Please watch this space for the official grand opening next year, and for your invite to come along and view the finished facilities.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">One of the things I am most proud of is the stoicism and hard work of my students and staff throughout any challenges we have faced in this past year.&nbsp; In true &lsquo;Team OSCA&rsquo; spirit, we have managed not only to survive, but to thrive.&nbsp; As you know, GCSE results were the best ever in 2014, and we are predicting a significant rise again in 2015.&nbsp; Attendance has continued to improve again this half term.&nbsp; It is currently running at </span><strong style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">98%,</span></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"> which is up </span><strong style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">1.5%</span></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"> on last year&rsquo;s record breaking figure, and up </span><strong style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">3.5 %</span></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"> on the year before!&nbsp; We were the highest performing school on attendance in the whole of Sandwell last year, and one of the highest performing in the whole country!&nbsp; We intend to keep this target high though, and again I would like to thank parents and families for all your support on this.&nbsp; Every year, when we do an analysis of results, we find the highest achievers are also the highest attenders, so being here every day, on time, really does pay off in terms of success.&nbsp; Indeed, we recently commissioned an external review of behaviour and attendance at OSCA.&nbsp; A few headlines from the report include:</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Behaviour is good in lessons across the Academy,&nbsp;and in many cases it is outstanding</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students are smart and orderly on arrival to the Academy and when moving around the site</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Students and staff are proud of belonging to the Academy</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Academy is moving towards a judgment of outstanding in terms of behaviour and safety</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Alongside this, we have managed to have a bit of fun and some adventures too - please see the attached newsletter for just some of the great things that have happened this half term, as well as some key dates.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">And finally, news of all the great things happening here at OSCA is spreading.&nbsp; You may already know we are full and oversubscribed in the new year 7, with a waiting list for places, for the first time in the academy&rsquo;s history.&nbsp; With a half term under their belt now, the year 7 are shaping up to be our brightest, biggest, and best year group ever!&nbsp; Furthermore, we hosted an exceptionally popular open evening in September for year 6 students and their families.&nbsp; Attendance at this event was up </span><strong style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">200%</span></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"> on two years ago!&nbsp; The feedback from prospective students and parents alike was superb, and competition for places in 2015 is likely to be fierce.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">So,&nbsp;a big thank from me once again for all your support this half term, and best wishes for a happy and enjoyable half term week.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Marie McMahon<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Principal</span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-to-Parents-Autumn-2014
Tue, 21 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTStem Club Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 17 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTA Class act at OSCAhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 14 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTOSCA 6th Brochurehttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/docs/OSCA_6th_Promo_Flyer.pdf
Mon, 13 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTScience Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Wed, 08 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTBlack Country Museum Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/?SSID=4432
Wed, 01 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMTBritish Science Festival Photoshttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Tue, 30 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTLetter for Parents
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Letter for Parents</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I&nbsp;would like to alert you that on Tuesday, 30th September 2014 we are holding an annual Open Evening for parents of prospective pupils who wish to join the Academy in September 2015.&nbsp; We will be closing early on that day,&nbsp;in order to finalise preparations for the evening and also to give some break in the day for the large number of students who are returning to support the Academy in the evening.&nbsp; School will, therefore, finish at 12.20 pm, after lesson 3.&nbsp; A snack service will be on sale as normal at morning break, and students eligible for free school meals will be able to use their ticket then.&nbsp; For any student or family&nbsp;for whom these re-arrangements to the day cause a difficulty, there will be the opportunity to remain in the Academy until the normal closure time of 3.00pm.&nbsp; Please contact your child&rsquo;s Head of House if you would like us to make arrangements for this.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Many thanks for your continued support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours faithfully</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Mrs G A Garner<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;">Senior Leader Pastoral and Transition</span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Letter-for-Parents
Tue, 30 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTOpen Day & Evening
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Open Day &amp; Evening</h1>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Academy will be open to all prospective parents and students for intake in September 2015 as follows:&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tuesday 30th September 2014 9.00am - 10.30am&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tuesday 30th September 2014 5.00pm - 7.00pm</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: initial;">Wednesday 1st October 2014 9.00am - 10.30am&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.5em; background-color: initial;"><br /></span></span></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Diary/Open-Evening
Tue, 30 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTIce Bucket Challengehttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Videos/
Mon, 29 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTFirst Science Club Meet Photoshttp://ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/
Fri, 26 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTOTP at OSCA
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">OTP at OSCA</h1>
<p><img title="OTP " src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/OTP_at_OSCA.jpg" alt="OTPatOSCA" width="600" height="375" /></p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OTP-at-OSCA
Thu, 25 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTScience BTEC Reminderhttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Students/Exams/
Mon, 22 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTInformation for Year 11
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Information for Year 11</h1>
<p align="center"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Information for Year 11 &ndash; Autumn Term</span></strong></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dear Parent/Guardian,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I am writing to you at the end of a very successful academic year at OSCA &ndash; not only have our outgoing year 11 students achieved our best GCSE results ever, we have many successes to celebrate with our new year 11 cohort, including some excellent GCSE results already in Science.&nbsp; This sets them in good stead to meet our target for them of 65% of students gaining 5 A*-Cs including English and Maths. However, this target is only going to be met through hard work in lessons, out of school and at home. This year will be both demanding and rewarding, as your child will be completing their Key Stage 4 courses, sitting their final GCSE examinations and making important decisions about their future.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">In the coming year your child will need to be well-disciplined and organised, as it is vital that deadlines for all work are met. To this end, please would you ensure that your son or daughter has all the relevant equipment needed for GCSE studies and examinations, such as calculators, rulers, protractors etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">To support you and your child through this very important stage of their academic careers we have organised a <strong>Year 11 Stepping up event on Tuesday 16th September, 5.30 &ndash; 6.30pm. </strong>We invite all students and parents/guardians to join us for the &lsquo;Stepping up&rsquo; event. This event shall be used to share very important information about various key dates for year 11. In particular, information will be distributed on coursework requirements and exam entries in the areas of English, Maths and Science, and when extra study support sessions will be running in order to support students for the preparation of these. You will also have the opportunity to meet with Heads and Assistant Heads of House and our Academic Mentor Team. There will also be the opportunity to purchase GCSE study guides, which can be brought at a reduced rate directly from the academy.<span style="line-height: 1.5em;">&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">We will also be holding our <strong>Target setting Day </strong>on <strong>Monday 6<sup>th</sup> October</strong>, again this will be an opportunity to meet with your child&rsquo;s form tutor to review and set academic targets. I would also like to share with you the date for the&nbsp; <strong>Year 11 Parents evening</strong> which be held on <strong>Tuesday 11<sup>th</sup> November</strong>, further details on times to follow. This will also be the Open Evening for our new OSCA Sixth provision. We do hope you will join us to explore the brand new facilities and exciting new opportunities we will be offering in year 12 from September 2015.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Yours Faithfully,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Myk Wagstaff</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Senior Leader &ndash; Progress Director KS4 and KS5</span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Information-for-Year-11
Tue, 09 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTTutor Groups For Sept 2014
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<h1 class="HTXT">Tutor Groups For Sept 2014</h1>
<p><img title="Tutor1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Tutor1.PNG" alt="Tutor" width="600" height="475" /></p>
<p><img title="Tutor 2" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/Tutor2.PNG" alt="Tutor2" width="600" height="239" /></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Tutor-Groups-For-Sept-2014
Fri, 05 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTWelcome To Year 7!
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<h1 class="HTXT">Welcome To Year 7!</h1>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Our brightest, biggest and best year 7 make a superb first impression on their first full day as part of the OSCA family! Well done to all the students who were beautifully presented, excellently equipped, and impeccably behaved on their first full day of study. Staff were delighted with their engagement in lessons, and the students told me they had a thoroughly enjoyable day. I lost count of the number of students who came up to me at the end of the day and said 'Thank you Ms McMahon for a great first day'. One young man did have Mrs Garner worried &nbsp;for a moment though. As he was leaving, he said to her 'I feel sad miss'. Concerned, she asked 'Oh dear, why is that?' To which he replied 'I've had such a good day, I don't want to go home!' Now that's true OSCA spirit for you! Well done one and all.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Ms McMahon</span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><img title="Year 7 Photo 2014 1" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/P1250630.JPG" alt="Year7 Photo12014" width="600" /></div>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Welcome-To-Year-7
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMTBest GCSE Results Ever!
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<h1 class="HTXT">Best GCSE Results Ever!</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Congratulations year 11- the class of 2014 achieved the best GCSE results ever!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">As you may be aware, everything has changed this year in terms of league tables, so comparisons with previous years are complex, but we are delighted with how brilliantly year 11 have dealt with all these changes. They have taken it all in their stride, and still managed to break records! In terms of some headlines, these include:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">* 63% of students achieved the new, more rigorous category of 5+ A*-C grades with a maximum of two equivalents. A fantastic achievement</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">* 48% of students achieved this including English and maths, broadly in line with last year's record breaking results</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">* Best of all, students achieved the highest ever percentage of 5+ A*-C in the most demanding academic GCSE only category, improving 7% on last year to 46%!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Well done to all our students, families and teachers on all the hard work we put in to achieve these. I am really proud of you all class of 2014!!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Marie McMahon</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Principal</span><br /><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Click <a title="GCSE Results Day Photos" target="_blank" href="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/About/Galleries/">here</a> to see the photos</span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Best-GCSE-Results-Ever
Mon, 25 Aug 2014 00:00:00 GMTSporting Excellence at OSCA
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<h1 class="HTXT">Sporting Excellence at OSCA</h1>
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<p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sporting Excellence at OSCA </span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Year 10 student Liberty Smith, travelled to Lloret De Mar in Spain, to represent Great Britain in the girls under 55kg category, at the Amateur World Kick Boxing Championships on the 30</span><sup style="line-height: 1.5em;">th</sup><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"> April. Liberty competed against girls from Germany and America and gained a bronze medal.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Whilst there Liberty was asked to compete in the ladies under 54kg category. She showed no fear in challenging the 21 year olds and gained another bronze medal.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Liberty has been training for 10 years and is looking forward to competing in the European Opens next year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Liberty&rsquo;s Mom (Mrs Lisa Smith) said &ldquo;I&rsquo;m very proud, Liberty has wanted this for 2 years, she qualified last year but unfortunately had a hip injury and could not go, she was disheartened. Liberty trains for Wayne Stokes in Oldbury and her trainer is the World Champ. Liberty trains five times a week, it&rsquo;s her life and she can&rsquo;t wait to go to the European Opens next year. I&rsquo;m the proudest Mom in Dudley!&rdquo;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">OSCA&rsquo;s Principal Marie McMahon, said &ldquo;We are all really proud of Libby and all that she has accomplished so far in her young life. To have won 2 bronze medals in the World Championships is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She is the very embodiment of OSCA&rsquo;s&nbsp; motto &lsquo;Striving for Excellence&rsquo;. I am sure she is a superstar of the future in the making!&rdquo;</span></p>
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<p><a href="index.html#galleries">View the Gallery</a></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Sporting-Excellence-at-OSCA
Thu, 15 May 2014 00:00:00 GMTFull and Over Subscribed
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<h1 class="HTXT">Full and Over Subscribed</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">OSCA is now becoming so popular as our community&rsquo;s first choice of school that we are now<strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">full and over subscribed</span></strong> for the new year 7 in 2014! This is a fantastic accolade for our academy, and a recognition of how hard we are all working: students, staff, parents and families, to achieve our goals. Well done all, and we look forward to welcoming all our new year 7 students to the OSCA family in the coming months.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Marie McMahon<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Principal<br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy</span></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Full-and-Over-Subscribed
Tue, 13 May 2014 00:00:00 GMTParent Pay & Cashless Catering
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<h1 class="HTXT">Parent Pay &amp; Cashless Catering</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Did You Know?</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Paying for Meals Online:</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The easiest way to top up and monitor your child&rsquo;s school meal account is via <a title="www.parentpay.com" href="https://www.parentpay.com" target="_blank">ParentPay</a>&nbsp;, our new online payment system. &nbsp;If you have not received your login details, please contact the Academy Finance Department for your activation paperwork.&nbsp; </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Using parent pay enables you to transfer money electronically onto your child&rsquo;s school meal account without the worry of it being lost on the way into school or spent elsewhere.&nbsp; Consequently, you have confidence that it gets spent on school meals as you intend.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The minimum payment is &pound;10 so it&rsquo;s best to top up your child&rsquo;s account weekly.&nbsp; This removes the need to find change to send money into school on a daily basis.&nbsp; You can also set up alerts so that when your child&rsquo;s balance drops below the limit you specify, you receive a text to remind you to top up your child&rsquo;s account.&nbsp; This means they will never miss lunch through having no money on their account.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">You can also look at what food your child is purchasing on a daily basis.&nbsp; This is accessed via the homepage of your account, by simply clicking on the view transaction history.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">What about if I have no internet access?</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Paypoint </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you do not have access to the internet to top up online, you can order a School Meal Paypoint card.&nbsp; This enables you to transfer money onto your child&rsquo;s school meal account at any local Paypoint shop.&nbsp; It can take between 3-5 days to credit your account, so please ensure you top up in plenty of time.</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Can I Control the daily spend?</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">You can contact the Academy and instruct us how much your child can spend each day.&nbsp; We can set the overall daily spend limit and even set amounts for break and lunch if you require.</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Emergency top ups:</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you do not have a parent pay account, and your child has run out of money on their account, it is possible to send money into the academy for your child to load onto their account. </span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Trips:</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Using parent pay, you can also pay for School Trips.&nbsp; Any trips relevant to your child will show on your home page, where a copy of the letter can be seen. &nbsp;For all online payments, you can also submit your consent for your child to attend the trip online.&nbsp; This means, the only form you will need to send back will be the medical form.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;If you cannot pay online, a copy of the trip letter will be sent home.&nbsp; Each letter contains a barcode.&nbsp; To pay, take this letter along to your local paypoint facility, the shop will scan the letter and take your payment.&nbsp; Please ensure consent forms and medical forms are returned to school, along with a copy of the paypoint receipt.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you have any more questions regarding the above you can either go to:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.parentpay.com/">www.parentpay.com</a>, and click on parents FAQ&rsquo;s </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Or call the Academy Finance Department</span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Parent-Pay-Cashless-Catering
Wed, 09 Apr 2014 00:00:00 GMTParentPay - new online payment service
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<h1 class="HTXT">ParentPay - new online payment service</h1>
<h1 class="HTXT" style="font-style: normal;"><a style="font-size: 31px; text-decoration: overline;" title="ParentPay" href="https://www.parentpay.com" target="_blank"><img style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.5em; float: right;" title="ParentPay" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/pplogo.jpg" alt="ParentPay Logo" width="150" height="91" /></a></h1>
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<p><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.5em;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">We&rsquo;re pleased to announce that we will shortly be accepting payments online for items such as dinner money, school trips and uniform. Using a secure website called ParentPay, you will be able to pay online using your credit or debit card. ParentPay will be our preferred method of making payments to the academy.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">What are the benefits to parents and pupils?</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">ParentPay is easy-to-use and will offer you the freedom to make online payments whenever and wherever you like, 24/7 &ndash;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">the technology used is of the highest internet security available ensuring that your money will reach the academy safely &ndash; offering you peace of mind</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">payments can be made by credit/debit card or also through PayPoint</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">full payment histories and statements are available to you securely online at anytime</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">your children won&rsquo;t have to worry about losing money at the academy</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Parents can choose to be alerted when their balances are low via email and/or SMS text &ndash;</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">What are the benefits to the academy?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The more parents that use ParentPay, the greater the benefit is to our academy. More time will be available to devote to the educational support and the smooth running of the academy. Using ParentPay also ensures that all financial transactions are safe and secure.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>How to get started with ParentPay&hellip;</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>We will shortly be sending you your account activation username and password, once you receive these:</strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Visit <a href="http://www.parentpay.com/">www.parentpay.com</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Enter your Activation username and password in the Account Login section of the homepage. <em>NB. These are for one-time use only, you will choose your own username and password for future access during the activation process</em></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Provide all the necessary information and choose your new username and password for your account - registering your email address will enable us to send you receipts and reminders</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Once activation is complete you can go to straight to Items for payment, select which item(s) you want to add to your basket and proceed to complete your payment</span></li>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you have any questions, please contact the Finance Office.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">For more information please click here. Link to <a href="https://www.parentpay.com/PR1/Info/PP_Parents.aspx">https://www.parentpay.com/PR1/Info/PP_Parents.aspx</a></span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/ParentPay-new-online-payment-service
Thu, 06 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMTParentPay Activation
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<h1 class="HTXT">ParentPay &ndash; Activation</h1>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a title="ParentPay" href="https://www.parentpay.com" target="_blank">ParentPay</a>&nbsp;<span style="line-height: 1.5em;">activation&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">letters will be coming home this week. Please activate your account as soon as possible.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you need help activating&nbsp;your <a title="ParentPay" href="https://www.parentpay.com" target="_blank">ParentPay</a> account please call the Finance Office.</span></p>
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http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/ParentPay-Activation
Tue, 04 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMTChange of regulations regarding holidays in term timehttp://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/Absence/
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMTEnrichment at OSCA
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<h1 class="HTXT">Enrichment at OSCA</h1>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">LGB: Student News- enrichment activities (because education isn&rsquo;t just about the 3 Rs!!)</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;"><img title="Enrichment" src="http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/i/images/news/Enrichment.JPG" alt="Enrichment Photo" width="419" height="282" /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong></strong>&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">Science</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Students attended the big bang fair in London an event about careers and futures highlighting the exciting possibilities that exist for pupils with STEM backgrounds. From meeting inspiring engineers and scientists from some of the biggest and most interesting companies in the UK the pupils got stuck in asking questions, taking part in shows and representing the school superbly. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Year 9 pupils are undertaking the UCAS endorsed CREST Award. The CREST award will give the pupils an opportunity to explore real-world projects in an exciting way. The four week project will allow them to work in groups independently to plan, carry out, conclude and present to an audience their chosen investigation. We look forward to their findings. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Our ecology lessons took a step into the community with students being taught about how to measure the flora and fauna in the local Tividale park. Students will use classic and modern techniques to measure different insect and plant species. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">And if CSI is you thing the KS3 science club are completing a series of forensic investigations such as finger printing, fibre analysis and DNA sampling, experiencing an insight into how real world crimes could be solved. </span></li>
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<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">English</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">On Wednesday 1st May 2013 47 Year 9 pupils attended The Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton, along with Mr Bishop, Miss Cooper, Mrs Keedwell and Miss Ruth, to witness an excellent Blood Brothers performance. Having already studied the popular play by Willy Russell in English lessons, the students enjoyed the show immensely and were extremely well behaved throughout. Despite not returning to OSCA until midnight, all students spoke highly of the experience and were a credit to the Academy. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">8 Year 7 students have been improving their Literacy skills working with a theatre group from Birmingham. They have been time-travelling back to Australia to find out about policies of separation, read and written letters, newspaper reports, and performed as characters from the story. </span></li>
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<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">PE</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Year 9 football team reached the 4th round of the West Midlands football competition </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Yrs 7, 9, 10 and 11 reached the quarter finals of the Sandwell schools football cup competition </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Yr 7s won the Sandwell schools football 5-a-side competition</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Cricket and athletics events to begin this half term!! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">All attitude and behaviour excellent throughout. Numerous opposing staff have commented on the excellent standard of conduct of our teams!! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Over 50 of our year 11 cohort have successfully completed the Sports leader Level 1 award in sports leadership and will be receiving certificates in due course. One of our students, Emily Chambers, was put forward for a special award in recognition of the great amount of effort and commitment she has given to the PE department, in particular assisting with the key stage 1 and 2 gifted and talented gym clubs that run at the academy. She has done this since she joined us way back in year 7 amongst other activities she has helped us to deliver. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">This year&rsquo;s Primary Gym and Dance Festival was a great success with approximately 200 pupils taking part and an audience of over 400 over the two nights. Burnt Tree, Grace Mary, Oakham, Rounds Green and Tividale Hall were represented by youngsters from Reception through to Year 6 and there were also performances from students in Year 11 at OSCA. As always there was a very positive and supportive feel to the whole event and everyone clearly had a very exciting and enjoyable evening. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The Secondary Gym and Dance Festival is scheduled for Wednesday 26th. and Thursday 27th. June, starting at 7.00.pm. All year groups at OSCA are represented and there will also be performances from pupils who attend the Primary Gifted and Talented Gym Club. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The academy U16 Rounders team began their league fixtures on June 7th with a game at home to Shirelands. They have regular fixtures on a Thursday with approx. 18 students regularly attending training and playing for the academy. Year 7 student Kiri Anna Simmonds is playing in competitive matches in the age group above her own due to her ability levels in this activity. The group also recently took part in the youth photography partnership activity run by Ms Gabriel. So some very good action shots were taken. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Boys badminton run by Mr Lovatt is gaining momentum and attracting numbers. It is a new club set up at the start of this term. The club is run on a Wednesday after school with the scope to improve skills and techniques of the young people who are interested in the sport. The club is open to the whole of year 7 and 8, and new participants are always welcome. If the current club members continue to play and improve at their current rate, then Mr Lovatt will be looking to begin playing competitively against other schools. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">Technology</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Year 9 and 10 fashion and graphics have been to visit the senior visual merchandisers at Topshop and the graphics students visited Hamleys head office to research for their GCSE coursework. This was a great opportunity for learners to see the real world of design.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Year 9 and 10 fashion design students are taking part in graffiti workshops and working with a local artist to create the back drop for the fashion show in July. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">All fashion, graphics and food learners are taking part in an end of year fashion that they are organising themselves. All parents will be invited to attend the show to see their achievements. </span></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">Music</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">3 of our Year 8 girls have set up their own string &amp; wind group. They are working on a repertoire of Classical &amp; Film classics and rehearse totally independently every lunchtime. They will be ready to perform at school events soon. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">We also have a group of very talented Rock musicians in Year 9, who have performed in previous school events as well as a few public shows. They have 2 public gigs lined up soon, one at Sandwell Valley &amp; another at a showcase at the Coneygre Arts Centre. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Several of our string &amp; wind students attend Sandwell Youth Orchestra every Saturday, where they work with young instrumentalists from other schools as well as semi-professional &amp; professional musicians. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">We also have a number of our Yr7, 8 &amp; 9 instrumentalists giving up their time to welcome next year's year 7s at our Transition Event next month. They will be working with Sandwell Youth Music teachers &amp; the event will be a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our young musicians and also help promote their leadership &amp; mentoring skills. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">In addition to the many talented instrumentalists, we have two budding producers in Year 7s who attend our production club after school every Thursday. We are hoping that soon they will be working in collaboration with our musicians to enable us to set up our own OSCA record label. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">Extended Services</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Capturing the Curriculum (project funded by Sandwell MBC): OSCA photography students are working with English, Science and P.E to capture our curriculum outdoors in Tividale Park.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&bull;Science club will become ecologists looking at the flora and fauna of the park.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&bull;English will be performing a play and displaying poetry</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">&bull;PE will hold an afterschool rounders club</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Challenge: 8 of our Year 11 young people have signed up for The Challenge. The Challenge is an exciting, unique opportunity for 16 &ndash; 17year olds in the summer after they have completed their exams. The Challenge is part of National Citizen Service (NCS), a government-funded programme. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Beneath You're Beautiful: 26 Young Ladies and 1 young man, took part in our beauty workshops to show them how to apply natural flawless makeup for school. </span></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; text-decoration: underline;">Miscellaneous</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">In June, 27 year 10 Geography students braved the poor weather to collect primary data for their Controlled assessment. With measuring tapes, clinometers, stop watches and dog biscuits they set out to prove that a river's cross-section changes along its course. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Year 12 students recently had the opportunity to visit Wolverhampton University, where they had a tour of the campus and experienced talks focused on various subject areas. The students received information on student life at the university and gained insight knowledge on how to structure a personal statement to engage to university admissions tutors. The main objective of the day was to start the students of thinking about their career paths and what targets they need to set themselves over the next few months in order to achieve their goal. The day was designed to help them plan their career research. Students&rsquo; behaviour and attitude were exemplary and we received positive feedback from the university staff involved. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">On July 2nd the 6th form child development group will be taking part in a visit to "THE QUEST" at The Merry Hill Centre. Here they will assess and evaluate physical play opportunities from 1-3 years and 3-8, this is in line with their current assignment. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The MFL department is pleased to be establishing a languages club, every Wednesday lunchtime. Students are getting an enormous amount out of their 'fou de fran&ccedil;ais' (mad about French) activities, including making podcasts about their home town, and interactive online language games. Word is beginning to spread. Vive club OSCA MFL! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">6 pupils from Picasso House were sent to Krunch and did a project about the park, with the local police, youth workers and Councillors. They produced a song and recording it about entitled 'staying safe' </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The Learning Consultants, part of OSCA's Student Voice, are gradually beginning to be twinned with departments around the school. They arrange meetings with the HODs to ask them about the good learning and exciting events that are going on in their department as well as observing a lesson. They then write all this up as blogs for the school website. Last term they wrote blogs for Humanities, Technology and English. More Learning Consultants have been recruited this term to help to expand the project.</span></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">M. McMahon</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">June 2013</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/Enrichment-at-OSCA
Fri, 21 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMTOnline Student Data Collection
<div class="Content2Column">
<h1 class="HTXT">Online Student Data Collection</h1>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">At Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy we are proud to introduce our new online Data Collection module. The Data Collection Sheet wizard will enable you to submit changes to important details about your children to us here at OSCA. The Academy will review your submissions and then incorporate the updates into our database. You can use the Data Collection Sheet wizard to update student details, contacts, medical information, meals and dietary information, travel information and ethnicity.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">After submitting a data collection sheet for a child, the Data Collection Sheet hyperlink disappears from the My Children Links panel for that child. The hyperlink will become available again when the Academy has incorporated the changes that you submitted into the database.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">All this can be done via your SLG Parent Access login which you use to access information about your child.</span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you would like a login account or have mislaid your current login details then please contact us at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:studentrecords@ormistonsandwell.org.uk">studentrecords@ormistonsandwell.org.uk</a></span></p>
<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Thanks for your continued support.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
http://www.ormistonsandwell.org.uk/News/OSCA-Online-Data-Collection-Launched
Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT